In-form defender Gabriel is gearing up for the next challenge of his impressive season, and he can’t wait.
The Brazilian – voted Arsenal Player of the Month for January – has been in sparkling form this season and is now looking forward to making his first appearance in the knockout stages of the Champions League.
Speaking to the media at the pre-match press conference ahead of our round of 16 first leg match with Porto, Gabi said: “It'll be a very difficult match against a team with a lot of quality. We will know how difficult it'll be and we have worked hard to be ready for the game.
“We have a lot of quality and have been playing together for quite a few years. We know that the Champions League is a difficult competition but we are in a crescendo and have the quality.”
Personally, the 26-year-old, who made his senior debut for the Brazil national team at the start of this season, is also anticipating the chance to play in the knockout stages, after starting all six games in the group stage.
“I'm really happy to be working hard every day with my teammates," he added. "It's a dream for me to play in the Champions League and I hope we will be in the best possible form for this game.
“I think we're in a really good moment and hope that we continue to do so. We need to remain focused in every game and give our all.”
The defender has scored three goals in his last five appearances, and was even serenaded with his own chant from the supporters following the weekend’s win at Burnley.
“It makes me really happy!” he beamed. “It shows that I've been working hard to earn that right - I work hard every game and it's made me incredibly happy.”
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