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Arsenal defender Gabriel pays tribute to Chapecoense coach Caio Junior
ARSENAL'S Brazilian defender Gabriel has delivered an emotional tribute to his late friend Caio Junior, the Chapecoense coach who was one of 71 people killed in a plane crash in Colombia.
Chapecoense goalie announces retirement after plane crash
The charter jet carrying the Chapecoense team, along with club officials and journalists, to Medellin for their Copa Sudamericana final match against Colombian side Atletico Nacional came down late on Monday night.
Gabriel joined Arsenal from Spanish side Villarreal in January 2015, the 26-year-old having initially come to Europe after progressing through the youth ranks of Brazilian club Vitoria.
The centre-back gave an emotional interview with in-house club media as he recalled memories of his one-time coach at Vitoria and friend.
“This is really hard to take. It is something we never imagine will happen with us or a close friend,” said Gabriel.
Gabriel has paid tribute to Chapecoense coach Caio Junior
“I played for Vitoria for five years and I worked with the coach and the backroom staff, and two other players as well. We were very close friends.
“The minimum I can do is send my condolences to all their families and wish that they can carry on.
“We have a message group from Brazil and I texted them to say “don’t leave for tomorrow what you can do for today”.
“I say that because on my last birthday I felt this urge to talk to Caio Junior and for some reason I left it for another day and then this tragedy happens.
Gabriel played under Chapecoense coach Caio Junior at Vitoria
Caio Junior was one of 71 people killed in Colombia
“So if you think you want to do something just get out of there and do it because we don’t know what tomorrow brings.”
Premier League players will this weekend wear black armbands and observe a minute’s silence as a mark of respect.
A minute’s silence will also be held ahead of all of next week’s Champions League and Europa League matches.
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