Brazil defender and Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes has set out the national team's defensive priorities and his expanded leadership role under Carlo Ancelotti ahead of upcoming friendlies against Japan and Singapore.
Building a solid defensive base and chasing clean sheets
Gabriel Magalhaes has emphasized the importance of building a solid defensive foundation for the Brazil national team and aims to replicate his club clean-sheet record at international level. Arsenal have kept clean sheets in seven of their opening 10 Premier League games this season, and he highlighted how much defensive solidity is discussed at his club.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the friendlies against Japan and Singapore, he said: "We talk a lot at the club about this, about the quality of our squad, and if we don't concede goals, we'll be closer to winning games."
He added that the same focus is present with Brazil: "It's something we discuss a lot here in the national team. It's important not to concede goals."
Embracing leadership and guiding Ancelotti's newcomers
There has been a transition in Brazil's national team leadership after the departure of veterans Alisson, Danilo, Neymar, and Casemiro. Gabriel Magalhaes is described as one of the senior figures in the squad and has stepped into a pivotal pillar role alongside Marquinhos.
Under manager Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil have called up four newcomers: Arthur Dias, Jonathan Jesus, Vitor Reis, and Jair Cunha. Gabriel explained how he sees his responsibility towards the new arrivals: "It's about welcoming the new players in the best way possible and passing on our experience to them."
He also underlined the weight of representing Brazil: "We know it's the most prestigious jersey in the world, so we also try to convey to them the tranquility of being able to enjoy each moment, but with a lot of responsibility."
Lessons from a painful World Cup and the dream that continues
Gabriel Magalhaes has represented Brazil at the World Cup, which ended in painful elimination against Norway. Reflecting on that tournament, he said: "It is a dream for me and still continues to be a dream. I dream of playing in the next World Cup. It was an incredible experience. It didn't end the way we wanted, but the dream continues."
He spoke about what he and the squad have taken from that experience: "There are many lessons. In the national team, we know what we have to fix and what needs to be done every day to be ready for the next World Cup. Now our focus is on the matches in front of us, and the most important thing is to win."
Targeting Copa America and upcoming games against Japan and Singapore
Brazil are scheduled to face Japan on Saturday and Singapore on Tuesday at the Singapore National Stadium. Gabriel Magalhaes believes Brazil have everything required to target upcoming major honours like the Copa America, including top players and an experienced coaching staff.
As one of the senior figures in the squad, he said: "We have everything to win: top players and a top coach. So yes, now is the time to work hard. We know how difficult it is, but we need to prepare well, win every match, and be ready to face the Copa America."
