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Arsenal had an unsung hero last night who may have just played his way into Arteta’s XI for good – TBR View
Arsenal defender Pablo Mari may have arrived at the Emirates Stadium to relatively little fanfare, but he’s quickly making a name for himself at the club.
The 27-year-old joined Arsenal from Brazilian club Flamengo in January 2020, initially on loan before signing permanently in the summer in a reported £14million deal.
Mari was out of action long-term after suffering an ankle ligament sprain last June before returning in December, but was then sidelined again in January due to a calf injury.
Given Mikel Arteta has numerous central defenders in his ranks, Mari has had to bide his time for first-team minutes.
However, Arsenal’s last two performances may have just made Arteta’s mind up in terms of the best centre-back pairing at the club.
Mari and Rob Holding started against Sheffield United and Slavia Prague, and helped the club to two resounding clean-sheet victories.
“Easy to forget that this was Pablo Mari’s first ever European knockout match, so imperious was the Spaniard at the back,” wrote about him after the Europa League victory.
“Composed on the ball and concentrated at the back. Gabriel faces a battle to get his starting spot back.”
Meanwhile, the wrote: “Given the nod to start over Gabriel and did well. Nice and composed on the ball. Always seems to play with minimal fuss.”
The latter outlet also said that Holding “looks so much more comfortable playing alongside Pablo Mari, as opposed to Gabriel.”
Arsenal’s defence has been shaky at times, but last night’s events would suggest that Mari has played his way into Arteta’s first-choice XI for good, alongside Holding.