Arsenal legend criticizes star player for ‘disrespectful’ behavior following a controversial incident.

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has been criticized as “disrespectful” by club legend Freddie Ljungberg after imitating Viktor Gyokeres’ signature celebration.

During Arsenal’s impressive 5-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League, Gabriel scored to make it 3-0 before halftime and celebrated by mimicking Gyokeres’ “mask” gesture, putting his hands over his face. Ljungberg, speaking on Viaplay, found the celebration unnecessary and disrespectful. “Maybe I’m old-fashioned, but I don’t think it’s needed. Someone else has that celebration; leave it alone,” he remarked.

Sweden’s head coach, Lars Lagerback, played down the incident, suggesting it was likely meant as lighthearted irony rather than outright disrespect. Gyokeres himself responded humorously, saying, “He’s welcome to borrow it if he can’t come up with his own celebration!”

However, Gabriel’s night ended on a sour note when he was forced off with an injury in the 84th minute, replaced by Jakob Kiwior. Mikel Arteta confirmed the Brazilian was experiencing discomfort, casting doubt over his availability for Arsenal’s Premier League clash against West Ham. Gabriel’s injury adds to Arsenal’s defensive concerns, with Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu also sidelined. His partnership with William Saliba has been key, and Arsenal will hope for a quick recovery.