Sao Arsenal is considered the most influential player in the Premier League.

Jamie Carragher attracted notice by asserting that Arsenal's defender Gabriel Magalhaes now has one of the biggest impacts in the Premier League.

While Erling Haaland continues his devastating scoring form at Manchester City, former star Jamie Carragher grabbed attention by claiming that Arsenal actually has a player with greater influence than the Norwegian, namely center-back Gabriel Magalhaes.

Speaking on the channel Sky Sports Main Event before Arsenal's match against Crystal Palace, Carragher stated that Gabriel is currently one of the most crucial figures in the Premier League. He said:

“I think it can be argued that Gabriel is the most influential player in the Premier League right now. Looking at Arsenal's impressive defensive record, the number of clean sheets, and the threat he poses from set pieces, it's hard to find anyone with a bigger impact, even Haaland.”

Carragher's bold opinion quickly attracted attention because Haaland is currently the league's most feared goal scorer, with 11 goals in just 9 matches, continuing to top the scoring charts.

However, according to Carragher, Gabriel's influence on Arsenal is not only shown through his defensive skills but also in his fighting spirit, leadership qualities, and scoring at crucial moments.

In fact, Gabriel is a solid pillar in Mikel Arteta's defensive system, with the team leading in clean sheets since the season started. Not only is he excellent in one-on-one duels and aerial battles, but the Brazilian defender also frequently scores from corners, becoming a real threat inside the opponent’s penalty area.

Carragher also believes Gabriel’s impact on Arsenal is similar to Haaland’s on Man City, each in their own way. While Haaland is the “goal machine” helping City maintain their powerful attack, Gabriel is the “steel shield” keeping Arsenal solid in big matches.

Currently, both players play irreplaceable roles in their teams’ title ambitions. Haaland remains the symbol of attacking power, while Gabriel represents defensive solidity and resilience.

As Carragher pointed out, “influence” is not only measured by goals but by the importance in shaping the team’s play and results. In that regard, the Brazilian defender deserves to be ranked alongside, or even above, Erling Haaland at this moment.