Gabriel Magalhaes has just four caps for Brazil (Photo: Getty)
Arsenal star Gabriel Magalhaes has named Chelsea and Liverpool icons among his favourite Brazil players.
Gabriel is currently on international duty and preparing for Brazil’s big World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.
The centre-back only made his senior debut for the national team earlier this year having been shockingly snubbed for years despite impressive performances for Arsenal and previous club Lille.
Now, the 25-year-old is relishing the chance to help his country and play alongside various players who he idolised in his youth, among them Blues defender Thiago Silva and former Reds star Philippe Coutinho.
Asked by Arsenal.com for his favourite Brazilian players from years gone by, he said: ‘After Ronaldo came to Corinthians, of course I watched him a lot and he’s a top player.
‘I like Neymar so I’m happy to be there with him. Now he’s injured but he’s a good guy. I love to be there because I watched Neymar when I was younger.
‘A lot of players, Marquinhos as well, Thiago Silva… I’m so happy to be there. Coutinho is a top player and I’ve played with him as well for the national team.’
Thiago Silva has captained Brazil for much of the last decade (Photo: Getty)
Gabriel is of course one of three Gunners in the Brazil squad, alongside forwards Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus.
The latter was surprisingly named in the November squad despite being sidelined with a hamstring injury, and while it has been confirmed that he will not face Colombia, he could still face Argentina next Wednesday – much to Mikel Arteta’s displeasure.
‘The three Gabriels in the national team is so good for us, for everyone and the fans. It’s good for the club and we work very hard to be there,’ Gabriel Magalhaes added.
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‘To play for Brazil is a big dream. The first time I was called up, I was at home and Edu called me. He said I was in the national team and I never forget this day.
‘Also, my debut was so special. When I’m there I’m so happy. I spend a good time with the players.
‘It’s a good feeling to sing the national anthem. It’s better and better every time I go to the national team. My family were there for my first goal and I was so happy to score.’
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‘Top players.’