Former Arsenal defender claims he was scapegoated

Gabriel Paulista has claimed that he was made to be a scapegoat during his tenure at Arsenal.

Speaking to Sky Sports, as quoted by the Evening Standard, the Brazilian defender discussed his tenure in North London and claimed that he was targeted with unfair criticism.

Sometimes I played because my team-mates were injured. I did play and sometimes even after playing well, I’d go home sad, given that I was only playing because my team-mate was injured. I don’t think I deserved that.

Gabriel joined Valencia in the late stages of the summer transfer window, with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger deeming him to be surplus to his requirements for the 2017/18 season.

I think I had the ability to play and to start games because I deserved to do so, or because I did well in training, but that didn’t happen. Sometimes I’d play three or four games and if Arsenal lost, I’d be dropped and everyone on the outside would say, ‘It’s Gabriel’s fault.’

The former Villarreal man failed to really convince during his spell at the Emirates Stadium, contributing with some impressive performances but being largely singled out for his inconsistencies.

That wasn’t good for me. People thought, ‘When that guy plays, Arsenal always lose.’

Gabriel has since developed well under Marcelino at Valencia, who have been impressive at both ends of the pitch in La Liga this season.

The Brazilian joined Valencia for a fee in the region of £10 million and has not been a big loss to Arsenal, who have been well covered by their central defensive options.