According to a report by Football London on Friday, September 18, 2026, Mikel Arteta has revealed what he has noticed about the relationship between Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes since the England defender joined Arsenal.
Konsa has quickly settled into life at the Emirates, forming an impressive partnership with Gabriel at the heart of Arsenal’s defence. While his arrival was partly prompted by William Saliba’s injury, the former Aston Villa defender has taken his opportunity with both hands.
Arsenal suffered a major setback during the summer when Saliba aggravated a back injury during the World Cup and was ruled out for several months. The club already had defensive options in Cristhian Mosquera and Ben White, but Arteta still decided that bringing in another experienced centre-back would strengthen his squad.
Konsa has certainly justified that decision so far.
When he arrived at Arsenal, he knew he had a difficult task ahead of him. Saliba and Gabriel had established themselves as one of the club’s most trusted defensive partnerships, so stepping into that role was never going to be straightforward.
However, Konsa has adapted quickly and has looked increasingly comfortable alongside Gabriel.
Arteta believes part of the reason for that smooth transition is the relationship Konsa has developed with Gabriel away from the pitch.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League meeting with Brighton, Arteta praised Konsa’s character and revealed that the defender had made a strong impression on him since arriving at the club.
The Arsenal boss explained that he had already heard good things about Konsa before the transfer, but being around him every day has allowed him to see even more of his qualities.
Arteta was particularly impressed by the way Konsa interacts with his teammates and has settled into the dressing room.
The manager also highlighted the growing bond between Konsa and Gabriel, suggesting that their conversations around the training ground make it seem as though they have been teammates for much longer than they actually have.
That kind of relationship can be hugely important for Arsenal, particularly with the pair now working together regularly at the back.
Konsa has also made a strong impression with his performances on the pitch. His composure, defensive awareness and ability to play alongside Gabriel have given Arteta another option to consider when selecting his starting XI.
However, his position could become more complicated once Saliba returns from injury.
The Frenchman is expected to push for his place back in the starting lineup once he is fully fit, meaning Konsa will have to maintain his current level if he wants to remain a regular starter.
For now, though, the England international is doing everything he can to make the decision as difficult as possible for Arteta.
If Konsa continues performing at this level, leaving him out when Saliba returns may not be as straightforward as initially expected. With competition for places increasing, Arsenal could find themselves with an enviable problem at centre-back.
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