Gabriel Magalhães

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Gabriel Magalhães is strongly positioned to be a key figure for Brazil at the FIFA World Cup 2026, given his consistent elite-level performances for Arsenal and regular inclusion in the Brazilian national squad.

Analysis of Prospects:

Gabriel has established himself as one of the world's premier defenders, consistently featuring in Arsenal's starting XI and earning accolades such as being named in the PFA Team of the Year for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 Premier League seasons. He was also recognized as Arsenal FC Player of the Month in October 2025. His strong club form, characterized by his strength, aggression, tackling, and aerial threat, makes him a vital asset in any defensive setup.

His international career has seen a significant rise, making his senior debut for Brazil in 2023. Since then, he has been a consistent presence in the national squad for FIFA World Cup qualifiers and was part of the Copa America 2024 team. Notably, he scored his first international goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.

Under the management of Dorival Junior and subsequently Carlo Ancelotti, Gabriel has maintained his spot among Brazil's central defensive options. He was called up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers in August 2024 and was also listed in a predicted Brazil World Cup 2026 squad in December 2025, alongside other prominent defenders like Marquinhos and Eder Militao. This indicates he is highly regarded by the national team coaching staff and is a strong contender for a starting or significant rotational role.

Latest News:

As of late 2025, Gabriel Magalhães continues to be a central figure for both his club and country. His consistent high-level play, evidenced by his strong defensive statistics and ability to contribute goals, solidifies his standing. He has featured in 13 matches for Arsenal in the 2025/2026 Premier League season, scoring 2 goals. His ability to read the game, excel in ball recovery, and dominate aerial duels are key strengths highlighted in his recent performances. While he maintains a robust defensive presence, there's a suggestion that improving his progressive passing could further enhance his overall impact.

In summary, Gabriel Magalhães' current form, regular national team call-ups, and established position within Brazil's defensive depth chart paint a very optimistic picture for his inclusion and potential significant role in the FIFA World Cup 2026.