"I've been at the club for 5 years and have seen how the team has developed," ESPN quoted Gabriel as saying on 20/7. "I'm here to win major titles and I believe the 2025-2026 season will be different. We've missed out on a few titles recently, despite being so close. But this year, things will be different. I'm very confident about that."

Gabriel celebrates a goal during Arsenal's 5-1 victory over Sporting in the Champions League group stage at Jose Alvalade Stadium, Lisbon, Portugal on 26/11/2024. _Photo: AP_

In the 2024-2025 season, much was expected of Arsenal. However, they lost to Newcastle in the League Cup semi-final, Man Utd in the third round of the FA Cup, PSG in the Champions League semi-final, and quickly fell behind Liverpool in the Premier League title race.

Under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have made progress, but have only won the 2020 FA Cup, the 2020 and 2023 Community Shields. They finished second in the Premier League for the past three seasons.

Gabriel believes Arsenal have been somewhat unlucky in the past three years and wants to focus on the pre-season to improve and make changes. "We've done everything we could in the past three years and can't make excuses," the Brazilian center-back said. "Pre-season has started. We are focused on what the coach requires. I think this year will be different. The whole team believes we can win major titles."

Last month, Gabriel extended his contract until 2029, ending speculation about a potential move to the Saudi Pro League. "I haven't heard anything about it, and I haven't received any offers," the 27-year-old denied the rumors. "I'm focused on Arsenal. That's why I signed a new contract."

When asked further about what convinced him to commit his future to Arsenal, Gabriel said: "I only have one thing to say, and Mikel Arteta says the same: We are ready to reach new heights this season."

Gabriel and Arsenal arrive in Singapore on 20/7. _Photo: Arsenal FC_

Gabriel suffered a hamstring injury in April, requiring surgery and ending his 2024-2025 season early. The Brazilian center-back said he is recovering well and could be fit for Arsenal's Premier League opener against Man Utd at Old Trafford on 17/8.

On 20/7, Gabriel and his teammates arrived in Singapore to begin their Asian tour. Arsenal will face AC Milan on 23/7 and Newcastle on 27/7 in Southeast Asia, before traveling to Hong Kong to play a friendly against Tottenham Hotspur on 31/7.

Hong Duy (_According to ESPN_)