Gabriel remains Arsenal's best defender to pick in FPL after his spectacular 2025/26 campaign. The Brazilian was one of the most reliable defensive options in the game last season, combining Arsenal's excellent clean-sheet potential with a genuine threat from set pieces. However, his huge price rise to a massive £8.0m has made him a less attractive option for many FPL players who simply don't want to spend that much on a defender.
That naturally raises an important question ahead of the FPL 2026/27 season: is Riccardo Calafiori the best Gabriel replacement?
Riccardo Calafiori: £5.5m FPL Option
The Italian was outstanding in Arsenal's dominant 3-0 Community Shield victory over Enzo Maresca's Manchester City, producing the kind of performance that should excite FPL managers. Calafiori was a constant menace for the City defenders, particularly because of his willingness to push forward and become involved in Arsenal's attacks.
His attacking involvement is arguably the biggest reason to consider him as a cheaper alternative to Gabriel.
Calafiori repeatedly moved into advanced positions, looked comfortable carrying the ball forward and played an active role in Arsenal's attacking phases. If that continues during the Premier League season, he could offer considerably more attacking potential than you would normally expect from a £5.5m defender.
Of course, Arsenal defenders also benefit from playing behind one of the strongest defensive units in the Premier League. With the likes of Gabriel and Mosquera providing protection in central defence, Calafiori should have an excellent opportunity to collect regular clean-sheet points whenever Arsenal keep opponents out.
Is Calafiori Nailed in the Arsenal XI?
Gabriel vs Calafiori: Which Arsenal Defender Should You Pick?
Gabriel costs £8.0m, while Calafiori is available for just £5.5m. That is a huge £2.5m saving, which can make a significant difference when building an FPL squad.
Gabriel remains the safer premium option, particularly given his outstanding record and goal threat. But if your strategy is to spread funds across several positions, spending £8.0m on a defender may feel excessive.
Calafiori offers a way to maintain exposure to Arsenal's defensive strength without making such a large investment.
Final Verdict
At £5.5m, he offers an excellent combination of Arsenal's clean-sheet potential, expected regular starts and attacking involvement. His performance against Manchester City only strengthened the case for considering him.
Gabriel remains the ultimate Arsenal defensive pick if money is no issue, but for FPL managers looking for value, Calafiori could be the smarter choice.
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