Gabriel could be handed new role at Arsenal as 'interesting moment' spotted in Brighton defeat

Gabriel Magalhaes could be handed a new role at Arsenal next season following an 'interesting moment' during the Gunners' defeat to Brighton.

Arsenal's title hopes were all but diminished on Sunday afternoon after a sobering 3-0 defeat to Brighton at the Emirates.

In truth, it was a poor display by Mikel Arteta's side bearing in mind the circumstances, with the Seagulls coming away worthy winners.

Earlier in the day, Manchester City cast aside Everton 3-0 at Goodison Park, as they went five points clear at the top of the Premier League table with a game in hand over Arsenal below them.

But in the mix of the drama, one 'interesting moment' went under the radar at the Emirates, which could be sign of things to come at the club.

What happened?

Journalist Kaya Kaynak noted that after Martin Odegaard was substituted, Gabriel was handed the captain's armband, labelling it a 'sign of the Brazilian's influence this season'.

Indeed, Gabriel has started all 36 Premier League games this season, showing his underlying importance to Arteta.

It would appear that with Odegaard, and vice captains Granit Xhaka and Gabriel Jesus off the pitch, Gabriel is next in line for the armband.

While there could be even more significance to the decision, with Kieran Tierney, who was on the pitch at the time and has worn the armband on several occasions during his Arsenal career, seemingly relieved of his duties.

The decision could be a hint at Gabriel's future role at the club, with the likes of Xhaka rumoured with a move away this summer.

The 25-year-old has regularly partnered William Saliba in the heart of defence this season, but a back injury has hampered the Frenchman's progress.

The Athletic report that he will miss the rest of the campaign, alongside Oleksandr Zinchenko, who limped off with a calf issue against Newcastle.