Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães has said told ESPN that he is “eager” for another chance to take a penalty in a Champions League final after the heartbreak of missing the crucial spot kick in last season’s final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Following an earlier miss from Eberechi Eze in the shootout, Arsenal’s hopes of winning their first European trophy rested on the shoulders of the Brazil defender who ultimately sent the ball over the crossbar to crown PSG champions for a second consecutive season.
Gabriel, a stalwart character of the Arsenal defence, told ESPN Brasil that if he was in a similar position again, he would take another penalty.
“I couldn’t let a single missed penalty erase everything I’d achieved during the season,” he said.
“So, I just thank God for the opportunity to have been there in that moment, it’s part of the football.
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“But I’m definitely eager for another chance, if it happens again, I’ll be there, and if I have to take the penalty, I’ll take it. So, that’s it.”
Arsenal were praised throughout last season’s campaign for their solid defence, conceding just seven goals throughout their European campaign.
Gabriel thanked the fans for their continued support despite their European season ending on a sour note.
“I only have to thank the fans,” he told ESPN Brasil. “Ever since the final, I’ve just received a lot of support from them, you know. They were incredible to me, sending very positive messages.
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“But like I said, it’s part of football. I’m here, and it’s not the first time something like this has happened. So, as I said, if there’s another penalty for me to take, I’ll take it.”
Despite the missed opportunity in the Champions League final, Arsenal did end their 22-year wait for the Premier League title and look as though their form is continuing on into this campaign.
Mikel Arteta‘s side are yet to drop points this season but face a stiff test when they take on Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
