The football world is still coming to terms with the awful tragedy that took place in the mountains of Medellin on Tuesday resulting in the loss of most of Brazilian club Chapecoense's players and staff.
In the wake of such terrible news, we've seen an outpouring of sympathy for the community, and Brazil as a whole, and clubs and players are paying tribute to the team, that were due to play in the Copa Sudamericana final last night, in different ways.
Some teams are playing with Chapecoense's badge on their jerseys, others are holding minutes silence/applause, and players like Edinson Cavani are paying their respects in their goal celebrations, but when Arsenal defender Gabriel took his turn, he spoke from the heart.
Gabriel worked with a number of players and staff members who lost their lives, and his words as he struggled to hold back the tears were a powerful and moving tribute.
#ForçaChape pic.twitter.com/tfkqyBIrsR
— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) December 1, 2016
He showed immense bravery to stand in front of a camera after playing a football match with those thoughts and emotions fresh in his mind.
He also spoke incredibly well, and has been resoundingly praise for his tribute from Arsenal fans and supporters of other clubs alike.
@Arsenal oh man that was heartbreaking. It's one thing to read about it on the news, but Gabi's message makes it all the more real. RIP.
— WengerBeGood (@turnkeyportal) December 1, 2016
@Arsenal @Arsenal Respect to you, Gabriel. Clearly that was very difficult and very deep words. Heart breaking stuff ?
— Ahmar (@amar32100477) December 1, 2016
@Arsenal Big Man. Huge. How many professional footballers can be that honest on a public platform. Thanks for sharing.
— One Arsene Wenger (@everyonetalks21) December 1, 2016
@Arsenal Massive respect to @gpaulista5 for his words. The video couldn't of been easy to do but he showed strength & humanity. Proud of you
— Memz D (@AFCMemz) December 1, 2016
