Though Gabriel experienced a booming start, his personal goals eventually dried up, but the team’s goals continued to come.

Other players, such as Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard, have felt the benefits of his movement and trickery around the box.

Read also: Arsenal’s Saliba Determined To ‘Play Through Pain’ For Crunch Manchester City Clash.

However, Gabriel’s recent performances have been viewed as a slight setback after three successive draws.

Despite this, Gabriel is still returning from a lengthy injury, and Arsenal’s defense is not his primary responsibility.

Gary Neville, a former Manchester United defender, called out Gabriel and other senior Arsenal players after their 3-3 draw with Southampton, stating that “the more experienced players needed to step up and be composed.”

He also noted that the younger players have looked more assured, while the more experienced players, including Jesus, haven’t been at their best.

Gabriel’s profligacy in front of goal has also been a concern this season, as his 4.1 underperformance of xG is the highest of any player this season.

However, Gabriel has played a significant role in fostering productivity and brilliance in Arsenal’s attack.

He has never been a finisher, and this season marks the fourth out of six since he moved to England that he has underperformed by 4xG or more.

Moving forward, the question remains about what Arsenal will do up front.

Gabriel tends to leave the central space in the attack third, while rotations can leave it empty for long periods.

Eddie Nketiah is a more natural fixed focal point and has had an impressive season of his own but is yet to score while Gabriel has been fit.

However, Gabriel’s backup role has been crucial in Arsenal’s sustained charge this term, despite underperforming his own xG, which stands at 7.4.

Interestingly, the best finisher on Arsenal’s books may well be out on loan.

Folarin Balogun had no clear place in the squad over the summer with Gabriel and Nketiah in front.

At 21 and contracted until 2025, the Englishman has been searching for a way to prove his worth.

With 18 goals in Ligue 1 this term for a middling Stade de Reims side, Balogun has proven his worth. He is now likely to have the freedom of Europe when it comes to a next destination, which could make Arsenal regret their decision to let him go.

Balogun is a more orthodox striker and someone who is currently on top form, which could have made a significant difference for Arsenal if he had been available in this run-in.

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