After back-to-back title near-misses, Arsenal defender Gabriel believes big summer signings like Gyokeres and Zubimendi can finally turn the tide in the 2025–26 season.
Gabriel Magalhaes Eyes Redemption with New-Look Arsenal
Arsenal’s defender Gabriel Magalhaes isn’t sugarcoating it—the Gunners have been close, but not close enough. After three straight seasons as Premier League runners-up, Arsenal are heading into 2025–26 with a clear message: this time, it has to be different.
The Brazilian center-back told the BBC this week that the club’s aggressive summer transfer strategy might be the final piece of the puzzle.
“We have let a couple of titles slip through our fingers recently. We almost won but I think this year, things will be different,” Gabriel said.
It’s a bold statement—but one that’s starting to feel more believable.
Arsenal’s Summer Flex: A Transfer Window of Intent
Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal board have been anything but passive this summer. Let’s take a quick look at the names coming through the Emirates gates:
- Noni Madueke (Winger – Chelsea)
- Kepa Arrizabalaga (Goalkeeper – Chelsea)
- Christian Norgaard (Midfielder – Brentford)
- Martin Zubimendi (Midfielder – Real Sociedad)
- Viktor Gyokeres (Striker – Sporting CP – Expected)
The addition of Zubimendi brings control and composure to the midfield, while Norgaard adds defensive grit. Kepa strengthens the goalkeeper depth, and Madueke adds pace and width on the flank.
But the real buzz? Viktor Gyokeres.
The Swedish striker absolutely exploded last season with 54 goals in 52 games for Sporting CP. If that form translates to North London, Arsenal could finally have their elite-level finisher.
“We want to have the best players. To be in the dispute for titles, you have to have the best players,” Gabriel said.
“The players that are here are doing that. We are strong and we are getting stronger with these new players.”
Focus Remains on the Pitch
Despite the big signings and bold predictions, Gabriel says the mindset hasn’t changed—they’re locked in on the pitch.
“The club is doing what is best for the players and the manager… but we have to focus on what we can do out on the pitch,” he added.
That mix of ambition and accountability might be the exact mindset Arsenal fans have been waiting to hear.
Opening Day: All Eyes on Old Trafford
The Premier League season kicks off in blockbuster fashion for the Gunners, as they travel to face Manchester United on August 17. There’s no easing into this campaign—it’s straight into the fire.
If Arsenal’s new arrivals click early, it could be a statement win to set the tone.
Final Word
After years of “almost,” Arsenal aren’t satisfied with moral victories. With star power now injected into nearly every line of the squad, and Gabriel publicly embracing the pressure, the message is clear: no more excuses.
It’s title or bust at the Emirates in 2025–26.
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