Former Manchester United defender, Gary Neville has strongly criticised Arsenal centre-back, Gabriel Magalhaes over his reaction to a challenge during the Gunners’ Premier League victory against Liverpool at Anfield.
Neville described the Brazilian’s actions as ‘absolutely embarrassing’, accusing him of exaggerating contact after going to ground and holding his face following a clash with Liverpool striker Alexander Isak in the opening minutes of the encounter.
Gabriel appeared to appeal to referee Andy Madley for a foul, suggesting that Isak had struck him in the face. However, television replays indicated that the Liverpool forward’s arm made contact with the Arsenal defender’s upper chest rather than his face.
Reacting to the incident while providing commentary for Sky Sports, Neville acknowledged Gabriel’s competitive qualities but questioned his tendency to exaggerate challenges.
“He does let himself down at times,” the Manchester United legend and former England international said.
“I love his fire, his passion and his tenacity. But there’s a push into his upper chest and he goes down holding his face.
“It’s absolutely embarrassing. He needs to stop doing that.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal secured all three points through Kai Havertz, who scored the only goal of the contest in the 16th minute.
The victory strengthened Arsenal’s position at the top of the Premier League table, giving the reigning champions a three-point advantage over their closest challenger.