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Willian received two assists and played a role in Alexandre Lacazette’s opener, while his Brazilian compatriot was a dominant presence at the rear, scoring his Premier League arc with a header early in the second half.
Gabriel only had the benefit of several training sessions with his new teammates before springing into action amid a defensive injury crisis, but the former Lille midfielder, who cost £ 27 million, was hardly wrong.
Reacting to his first contact with English football, the 22-year-old said: ‘I am very happy to make my debut, for the victory and my goal, for being able to help my teammates. I haven’t been here long, but they welcomed me very well and I’m very happy with that. There is nothing better than starting with a victory and a goal.
‘I am very happy to be able to work with him, I know that I will learn a lot. It’s a different style of play than the one I’ve been doing, but it’s a very good group of players where everyone tries to help each other. I hope this season is a great season. ‘
Meanwhile, Willian was expected to immediately start with Arteta after his move from Chelsea and fully justified his new manager’s faith with highly efficient display.
On Instagram, he wrote: ‘I am very happy with my debut! Great teamwork, guys! But it’s just the beginning, let’s keep working hard! Thank you for all the support from the Arsenal fans. ‘
Gabriel helped contribute to a rare clean sheet away from home for the Gunners and the former Lille star clearly impressed his new defensive partner Rob Holding, who was also enthralled by Willian’s instant impact.
“I know Willian from when we played Chelsea,” he said. ‘I know he has all the ability so it’s good to have him on your team.
‘He showed today why we hired him and Gabriel was rock solid. He won everything in the air and finished off with a nice goal too. ‘
MORE: Mikel Arteta reveals he told the Arsenal star that he changes his mind about his future
MORE: Mikel Arteta praises anonymous Arsenal hero Mohamed Elneny against Fulham and reacts to Gabriel’s debut display
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