The sight of Gabriel wiping away tears as PSG’s players celebrated with the trophy will be one that lingers long in the memory of Arsenal supporters.
The Brazilian, one of Mikel Arteta’s first signings after taking charge in December 2019, has been a driving force behind the club’s rise back to the summit of English football and their Premier League title triumph this season.
He started 48 of Arsenal’s 63 matches across all competitions and contributed nine goals and assists – more than both Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus.
While rival fans may focus on his miss in Budapest, Arsenal supporters will remember the countless occasions he delivered for his side, including a dramatic 96th-minute winner against Newcastle United in September.
“I’ve just listened to Declan Rice talking about how he has run out of words to describe Gabriel because he has been so important and so good for Arsenal all season, and over the past few years as well,” former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha told BBC Sport.
“So for him to be the one who misses the penalty that costs them the Champions League final is heartbreaking.
“But I think everyone will rally around him because Arsenal would not have won the Premier League without him. He has been invaluable and, quite rightly, is in the conversation for PFA Player of the Year.
“The pressure is always there in a shootout. You can practice penalties in training, but in a Champions League final you can never truly prepare for that moment. Unfortunately, he has experienced what every player dreads – missing the penalty that decides a final.”
Former England defender Upson added: “It’s one of those moments that will be remembered for years, a cruel blow for a player who has been a tower of strength for Arsenal.
“Gabriel gave everything for his team. He showed the mentality and courage to step forward and take responsibility, which is all you can ask of any player.
“It is desperately sad for him, but he strikes me as someone who will recover quickly and use it as motivation. He still has a huge summer ahead with Brazil.”
For one night, Gabriel was the face of Arsenal‘s heartbreak. It should not detract from the fact he was also one of the main reasons they got there in the first place.
