The Brazilian defender and the Norwegian striker have already clashed in the past, their fierce duels becoming the common thread of their rivalry.
Gabriel and Haaland have already offered great surprises during their previous confrontations, last season having seen the spirits warm up. The two men will now relaunch hostilities, Arsenal receiving Manchester City, which could prove to be a decisive first milestone in the title race. Haaland, with seven goals in a week in club and selection, should again be the main threat, and Arteta believes that Gabriel is impatient to meet against the Norwegian.
The Brazilian is ready to face Haaland again
“These are his qualities,” said Arteta about Gabriel. One of his qualities is that he can compete with anyone. He is someone who really appreciates defensive game, contact, physique. When the game has to get there, he loves it. It is an essential quality, and it is essential with someone like him (Haaland), who is also very physical. These qualities must have to be effective. I think that is the effectiveness, the word that must be used with the defenders. Compared to the quality of the opponent, how to adapt your qualities to resolve many situations? If there is no need for contact and it is not necessary, it is even better. But Gabi has both, I think.
Haaland has a chance to derail the hopes of Arsenal title from the start
Haaland's dazzling return to him makes him the main obstacle to the hopes of the title of Arsenal this weekend. The Norwegian scored five goals in four league matches and seems sharper than ever, Pep Guardiola even suggesting that he has reached a new summit. For Arsenal, the Battle of Gabriel with Haaland could define the match to the Emirates and send a first signal of their references.
