£23m Arsenal star warns Man City to prepare for a 'big battle' at Wembley

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes says the squad are fully prepared for a “big battle” as they get ready to face Manchester City in Sunday’s EFL Cup Final at Wembley.

The Brazilian centre-back believes the occasion represents an important opportunity for Arsenal to translate their strong form into silverware.

“It’s a really good feeling for this club to be in the final against a top team,” Gabriel said ahead of the match. “We have a good feeling and we cannot wait for Sunday.”

Arsenal arrive at Wembley in excellent shape following a series of strong performances across competitions.

That momentum has strengthened belief within the squad that this season could deliver major honours.

Gabriel insisted the team’s approach remains unchanged regardless of the scale of the occasion.

“We want to win every game we play,” he explained. “We know it’s going to be a big battle, but we are ready and we will try to win.”

The £23 million signing also called on the Arsenal supporters to make their presence felt at Wembley.

“We need to push our fans to be behind us,” he said. “In a game like that they can help us a lot.”

Gabriel joined Arsenal from Lille OSC in 2020 and has yet to experience lifting a trophy with the club.

The 28-year-old therefore sees Sunday’s final as a chance to help deliver silverware after several near misses in recent seasons.

“We learned a lot in the past,” Gabriel said. “We worked very hard and I think this year we started well.”

“We are in a good moment and we just need to keep doing what we are doing.”

Arsenal’s defence has been one of the strongest units in Europe this season and Gabriel has played a central role in that consistency.

His aggressive style has earned admiration from teammates and supporters alike.

“I’m a defender, so I need to bring energy for my teammates and for our fans,” he explained. “I give everything when I’m on the pitch and I try to push everyone.”

Gabriel revealed he has studied some of the greatest defenders in football history to refine his approach.

“I’ve watched a lot of defenders before,” he said. “I learn from players like Paolo Maldini, Fabio Cannavaro, Lucio, Thiago Silva and Marquinhos.”

Sunday’s final will also see Gabriel renew his personal duel with City striker Erling Haaland.

The Arsenal defender admitted he relishes facing the Norwegian forward.

“I enjoy every game and every striker,” he said. “He is a top player and I think he likes to play against me as well.”

“It’s fun and we enjoy it.”

Gabriel’s commitment was highlighted during Arsenal’s recent Champions League clash with Bayer Leverkusen when he blocked a powerful shot with his neck.

“I could not breathe after that block,” he admitted. “But I try to do my best and give everything for this badge.”

As Arsenal prepare for the Wembley showdown, Gabriel believes the team’s determination and belief can help them overcome one of their biggest rivals and take a significant step toward a memorable season.

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