"That's why we signed him."
Those were the words Mikel Arteta used as he expanded on his praise for Gabriel following Saturday's 1-0 win at Burnley.
The Brazilian defender was a prominent figure as we turned in a display high in commitment and spirit - and it didn't go unnoticed.
During the post-match press conference, the boss was asked about the impact of the 23-year-old, who has now played his part in delivering back-to-back clean sheets after missing the opening three league fixtures of the campaign.
"We didn't have him, so we don't know how much we missed him," Arteta said. "We know that he's a player with an incredible future and is already giving us a lot. He has adapted really well to the league.
"That's why we signed him. He is stepping in, his language is much better and he can coach and communicate much better with his teammates.
"He understands what we want and I don't think it gets much harder than playing here in the Premier League.
"He was terrific today."
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