Arsenal defender Gabriel Paulista paid an emotional tribute to the players and backroom staff at Chapecoense, many of whom perished in air crash earlier this week.
71 people lost their lives in the tragedy, including 19 members of the Brazilian club side.
Speaking after Arsenal’s EFL Cup defeat to Southampton on Wednesday night, the Brazilian said: “I had many friends over there.
“I played for Vitoria for many years and I worked with the coach and the backroom staff, and two other players as well. We were very close friends.
“This is really hard to take, it’s something we never imagine to happen to a close friend. The minimum I can do is send my condolences to all of their families and wish that they can carry on.”
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