Jacoballen@jacoballen

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Gabriel 21st in Ballon d'Or

Seeing a defender get this kind of recognition is rare, so Gabriel sitting 21st in the Ballon d'Or deserves a proper nod. The Brazilian is Arsenal's defensive rock for a reason. Strength to bully strikers off the ball, anticipation to snuff out danger before it develops, and aerial dominance that turns set pieces into his personal territory. That mix is what puts him among football's elite.

2h

Jacoballen@jacoballen

Follow

Gabriel 21st in Ballon d'Or

Seeing a defender get this kind of recognition is rare, so Gabriel sitting 21st in the Ballon d'Or deserves a proper nod. The Brazilian is Arsenal's defensive rock for a reason. Strength to bully strikers off the ball, anticipation to snuff out danger before it develops, and aerial dominance that turns set pieces into his personal territory. That mix is what puts him among football's elite.

2h