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Arsene Wenger has backed Gabriel to be a “revelation” in his first full season in English football.
The £11.3 million signing from Villarreal was eased into action at the Emirates after arriving in January, making just eight appearances as Wenger continued to favour Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny. The manager also expressed his concern that the new signing would struggle to settle in the backline due to his limited command of English
But when Gabriel did make it onto the pitch though, he impressed, with a fine performance against Everton showing his potential.
And Wenger is certain that there’s even more to come from the 24-year-old next season. He told the club website: “We bought well in the transfer market [last season], and all those players had a good impact. I also think Gabriel will be a revelation.
“He didn't have many chances this season, but I am convinced he will be a top player. We will see more of him next season.”
Though Wenger has only signed Petr Cech this summer he professed himself happy with the makeup of his squad, particularly in defence.
"What I have learnt about my team is that they have an exceptional mentality,” Wenger said. “We made some changes on the defensive front and they turned out to be very positive.
“The balance looks good now, in fact I would say we are close to a perfect balance in the team. Especially given the players we have coming back, like Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott, I have learned that we have a very promising squad ahead of next season.”
