Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has now admitted that he’s been incredibly surprised by the impact of one of his teammates this season.

Mikel Arteta’s side will conclude their formidable campaign against Everton today whilst praying for a miracle over in Manchester.

Given Arsenal’s exceptional goal-difference, Manchester City drawing against West Ham United would be enough to lift the league title, should they win their own game.

Of course, Arteta will reflect on several brilliant performances throughout his team this season, regardless of today’s outcome.

And it’s certainly no secret that Arsenal’s defensive record has propelled their campaign, conceding just 28 goals in 37 league games thus far.

David Raya deserves a lot of credit, as do William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, the imperious pair in front of the Spaniard.

But perhaps Declan Rice’s arrival has made the biggest impact in that regard, even if he often finds himself in advanced positions.

Arsenal’s ‘spine’ is now as strong as it’s ever been, and when speaking with the club website before today’s game against Everton, Gabriel admitted he slightly underestimated Rice before he signed.

Gabriel Magalhaes didn’t expect Declan Rice to be so influential at Arsenal

Gabriel praised Raya’s impact as well in the interview, before then lauding Rice’s arrival, which surpassed all his expectations.

He shared: “I didn’t expect it to be honest. I had watched Declan before and knew he was a top player. 

“He’s been having a big impact on the team here and really helping us out so we’re happy to have him.

“He has so much quality and can play in two or three different positions so of course we’re thrilled to have him in the team.”

Who will be Mikel Arteta’s star signing this summer?

Of course, it still remains to be seen which position Arteta will prioritise this summer when the club are expected to invest heavily again.

Talk of signing a superstar striker akin to Victor Osimhen has now subsided, partly because of Kai Havertz’s credentials as a false nine.

And therefore we could see Arsenal invest the majority of their funds into another midfielder, and it could even be another number six.

Rice has proved his effectiveness as a number eight, marauding down the left providing both attacking impetus and defensive cover.

And perhaps a profile like Benfica’s Joao Neves or Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi could be perfect foil to play alongside the England international.

Either way, the focus at Arsenal for now will just be on today’s huge opportunity against Everton, and the league title certainly isn’t decided just yet.

That being said, one Arsenal youngster has now confirmed that they’ll be leaving Arsenal once the season concludes.