Gabriel's Turnaround Lights Arsenal's Path to a 3-2 Bournemouth Win, Arteta’s Praise For Team Resolve
3 January 2026
Arsenal's Comeback: Arteta Applauds Gabriel's Turnaround at Bournemouth
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed the defender's mindset after erasing the opening mistake against Bournemouth in a dramatic Premier League clash.
BBC Sport live coverage: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c30jnmj4ljmt
Arteta admitted he was thrilled with the hard-fought 3-2 victory at Bournemouth, noting it came in a match that tested the visitors' resilience and focus.
The Spaniard praised his players' character and their ability to handle one of the league's trickier challenges, especially after conceding first.
In remarks to Sky Sports after the game, Arteta said he was very happy with the result and the way the team kept going despite the setback.
Defender Gabriel Magalhães fronted a shaky start following a mispass that led to the opponent's goal, before himself leveling the score with a goal of his own.
On that moment, Arteta added that he loved Gabriel's character and the way he bounced back, underscoring the team's progress and the significance of the win.
Arteta also emphasized the leadership Gabriel provides on the pitch, noting players who exert authority help guide the rest of the squad by example.
He lauded Declan Rice for a superb display, including two goals, noting Rice pushed himself to the limit for availability and rewarded the team with two wonderful strikes.
I think it's the first time Rice has scored twice in a Premier League game, so yes, it's a day worth mentioning.
Punchline 1: If mistakes were goals, Arsenal would be champions by now.
Punchline 2: Gabriel proved that a botched pass can become a plot twist that ends with a winner's smile.