Gabriel Explains Differences in Arsenal’s Back 3 System

Arsenal defender Gabriel has enjoyed forming part of a back 3 in recent games. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger adopted a back 3 for the first time in 20 years recently, with Gabriel forming part of a trio of centre halves. The Brazilian has also played at right-back this season, when Hector Bellerin was injured earlier […]
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sambafoot_admin
2017-05-04 15:55:00

Arsenal defender Gabriel has enjoyed forming part of a back 3 in recent games. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger adopted a back 3 for the first time in 20 years recently, with Gabriel forming part of a trio of centre halves.

The Brazilian has also played at right-back this season, when Hector Bellerin was injured earlier in the season. Gabriel told Arsenal.com, “It’s been good. We know it’s very difficult to play with three defenders.

“Everyone needs to run a lot and come back to mark the opposition and also we need to be physically fit to take advantage of the counter-attacks when we recover the ball.  I think with three at the back, the strategy changes a bit and our wingers need to come back and help defensively – this gives extra support to us defenders. We feel safer playing with this formation.

“I have played as a right-back in some matches and I was able to help my team and I did a good job with the help of the coach and my team-mates. I felt good and whenever they need me to play in that position, I’m here to help.”

Gabriel was singled out for special praise from his manager after the 2-1 FA Cup semi-final victory over Manchester City last weekend, “It makes me happy receiving compliments from a manager like him with such a vast experience.

“It also makes me very confident for the upcoming challenges,” Gabriel added. “It is something new for us, but we are well adapted to it and we want to continue doing our best.”

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