Gabriel is thriving in the role of Arsenal's enforcer

Brazilian is perfect partner for silky Saliba at heart of defence

- Simon Collings

EVEN after the full-time whistle had gone at the Etihad on Sunday, Erling Haaland and Gabriel were still going at each other.

The pair had been locked in a battle all game and more heated words were exchanged.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola acted as mediator and eventually the pair embraced in a hug before breaking out into smiles.

For Gabriel, it was recognition of a job well done as Arsenal held City to a 0-0 draw to boost their title prospects. Few defences can keep Haaland quiet, but Arsenal have shut him out on three occasions this season.

Each time Haaland has failed to manage even a single shot on target and, as much as neutrals may not be enthralled by the prospect of Arsenal and City potentially meeting in the Champions League semi-finals after their dull stalemate at the weekend, you can bet the Norwegian feels the same.

Haaland, probably more than anyone from the blue side of Manchester, will be glad to see the back of Arsenal.

The Gunners' defence was lauded for its performance on Sunday but, not for the first time, it was William Saliba who claimed most of the spotlight.