Gabriel Magalhães may have missed the crucial penalty in Arsenal’s Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, but the reaction from supporters was the opposite of what most expected.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal fans have shown overwhelming support for the Brazilian defender since Saturday’s final, making him the name of the club’s best-selling shirt.
Sales of his printed name have reportedly increased by 350% since the defeat, and at one point were more than double that of any other Arsenal player.
This reaction says a lot about Gabriel’s connection with Arsenal’s fan base.
The centre-back knew he had to score to keep Arsenal alive and went for a fifth penalty, but his shot went over the bar and PSG won the shootout.
Gabriel misses decisive penalty in Arsenal vs. PSG
It was a cruel end to a player who had been one of Arsenal’s most important figures all season.
The final itself was painful. Arsenal drew 1-1 with PSG after extra time, then lost 4-3 on penalties, missing out on their chance to win their first Champions League title.
Gabriel later admitted the loss “hurt,” which is understandable given the scale of the moment.
However, instead of opposing him, Arsenal supporters supported him in a very powerful way.
Buying him a shirt after such a difficult moment is more than just a gesture. Fans say they remember everything he did for the club, not just that one penalty.
Fans are ready to support the Brazilian player
This is important because soccer can be cruel. One mistake in a finals game can last for years for a player.
But in Gabriel’s case, Arsenal fans seem determined not to let that happen.
They know that he was instrumental in winning the Premier League this season and making it to Europe’s biggest competition in club football.
This is one of the best fan reactions you’ll ever see. It would have been easy for supporters to blame Gabriel, especially after such a heartbreaking defeat. Instead, they chose loyalty.
That’s important. Gabriel didn’t hide. He asked for responsibility and took a fifth penalty, which he missed. It hurts, but courage should still be worth something.
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