Arsenal defender Gabriel criticised by Gary Neville after Brazil's World Cup exit

Brazil were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after losing 2‑0 to Norway, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals. Arsenal centre‑back Gabriel Magalhaes, tasked with defending against Haaland, was beaten for the first header and failed to stop the second. Former England international Gary Neville, joined by Ian Wright and Roy Keane, slammed Gabriel’s defending on ITV, calling it “unacceptable” and saying Haaland “bullied” the defender. The pundits highlighted Gabriel’s positioning and lack of reaction to the Norwegian striker's runs. Norway’s victory sends them to a quarter‑final against either England or Mexico, scheduled for later this week.

The criticism has sparked debate among fans and analysts about Gabriel’s future role at Arsenal and the broader implications of Brazil’s early knockout from the tournament.