Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has singled out Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhaes as the toughest defender he has encountered during the current campaign. The Brazilian international, who also plays alongside Gabriel for his national side, shared his thoughts in an interview with TNT Sports Brasil.
Pedro acknowledged that he was taken aback by Gabriel’s exceptional pace on the pitch, though he noted that he also gave the Arsenal center-back a tough time. He listed Paris Saint-Germain’s Willian Pacho and Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah among his top three most formidable opponents, but ultimately placed Gabriel at the summit.
“The toughest defender to play against this season? Willian Pacho and Jonathan Tah are up there, but Gabriel Magalhaes was the most difficult in my opinion,” Pedro said. “I was surprised by his speed, but I made it hard for him too! He’s been really inspired this season.”
Pedro also highlighted the strong bond he shares with Gabriel, expressing relief that they are on the same side for the upcoming World Cup. “We have a great relationship. I am happy he is on my side in the World Cup,” he added.