Back in the summer of 2023, there was interest from Saudi Arabia in Gabriel, and rumours claimed that he was ready to go there as well. Charles Watts has now revealed that Arteta dropped Gabriel then for this reason – even though he publicly claimed at the time that it was due to tactics.

Despite Chelsea’s toothless display, the Blues were hailed as the ‘best attacking team in the league’ by Arsenal boss Arteta. ‘I’m very happy, obviously, with the result and with big parts of the performance,’ Arteta said after Arsenal cut Liverpool’s lead at the top of the Premier League to 12 points.

Arsenal have been told to make Newcastle striker Alexander Isak their No. 1 transfer priority this summer following their struggles in front of goal. The Gunners are currently playing without a recognised striker, with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus both ruled out for the rest of the season through injury.