But it is arguably his impact at the top end of the pitch which has made the biggest impact under Arteta.
The 27-year-old has scored five goals this season alone, as well as providing three assists.
Arsenal’s work to become a lethal team on set pieces has paid dividends as they chase the Premier League title and there is no better weapon to have in the box than Gabriel.
It remains to be seen how Arteta will shuffle his pack ahead of the remaining league games and crucial Champions League clash.
But whoever does come in to the defence will have big shoes to fill in the final months.