Arsenal silenced one of their closest rivals for the Premier League title by defeating Aston Villa 4-1 at the Emirates Stadium, but Gabriel commented after the win on his return.
Gunners defender Gabriel admitted Arsenal were “inspired” by Aston Villa’s celebration in their last encounter. Gabriel also said he couldn’t help but “make fun of” Villa midfielder Amadou Onana’s trademark “pocket” celebration.
Onana has become accustomed to putting his hands inside his coat in front of television cameras to show he has another victory in his pocket. Gabriel imitated Onana and imitated the celebration by putting his hand in his coat pocket and zipping it up in video footage on Arsenal’s own social media channels.
After beating Arsenal at Villa Park on December 6, Villa celebrated hugely on the pitch and in the tunnel, which clearly added extra spice to the rematch at the Emirates.
It was clear Arsenal were hungry for revenge, with Gabriel saying: “Yes, like I said, we’ll get the three points, right? That’s what motivates us. It’s a lot of fun. It’s fun for them, it’s fun for us. Like I said, we’ll get the three points.”
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“It wasn’t about getting them back, it wasn’t about getting Onana back. I know he’s a good person. So, yeah, no fighting or anything. Just celebrating.”
Arsenal were devastated by the defeat at Villa Park, with Emi Buendia scoring the winning goal in stoppage time, leading to wild celebrations from the players on the pitch and the Gunners’ stars falling to the floor in despair.
Villa’s bench also celebrated enthusiastically, and the celebrations that followed down the tunnel clearly struck a chord with Arsenal’s players.
Onana is one of the Premier League’s biggest characters and has an incredible connection with Villa’s fans as he joins the supporters in creating big celebrations.
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Villa manager Unai Emery also went straight down the tunnel after Arsenal’s 4-1 win on Tuesday night and did not shake hands with his opposite number Mikel Arteta.
Villa keeper Emi Martinez also appeared to be taunted by Arsenal fans as he made his way down the tunnel and had to be stopped by the club’s backroom staff.
Arsenal’s victory leaves them five points behind Manchester City, who have a game remaining as they must travel to Sunderland on New Year’s Day. Additionally, Arsenal are back in the lead, increasing their lead over Aston Villa to six points in the title race.
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