New footage has emerged revealing exactly why Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães refused to shake Harry Maguire’s hand following Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 victory at the Emirates on Sunday evening. The incident, which sparked a post-match melee, appears to stem from a physical altercation in the dying seconds of the game.

The Gunners’ title charge hit a significant speed bump as Michael Carrick’s rejuvenated Red Devils staged a smash-and-grab victory in North London. While goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Dorgu, and a late curler from Matheus Cunha stole the headlines, it was the toxic aftermath between the two centre-backs that has dominated the post-match discourse.

The Flashpoint

Broadcaster footage released this morning clarifies the confusion. In the 94th minute, with Arsenal desperately pumping balls into the box, Maguire—fresh from a Man of the Match performance—was seen forcefully engaging with Gabriel. After winning a defensive header, the United defender appeared to maintain a grip on the Brazilian, physically throwing him off balance to clear the danger.

Gabriel, visibly incensed by what he perceived as excessive force, confronted Maguire immediately after the final whistle. When Maguire extended a hand in a gesture of reconciliation, Gabriel bluntly ignored it, turning his back on the England international. This prompted a furious reaction from Maguire, who shoved the Arsenal man, leading to a scuffle that required United goalkeeper Senne Lammens and full-back Noussair Mazraoui to intervene.

• Carrick’s Impact: Since taking over as interim manager, Michael Carrick has instilled a gritty resilience in United. "We knew we had to be horrible to play against," Maguire admitted to Sky Sports. "Gabriel didn't like the physicality, but that's the Premier League."
• Title Race Implications: The loss leaves Arsenal vulnerable at the top, marking their first home defeat in over 12 months. Mikel Arteta refused to be drawn on the handshake incident, focusing instead on his team’s defensive lapses. "We cannot concede three goals at home and expect to win titles," he stated grimly.

Bad Blood or Just Business?

The incident highlights the intensifying rivalry between the two clubs. For Maguire, often criticized in the past, the moment was a show of dominance. For Gabriel, it was a frustrating end to a dismal evening. As the footage circulates on social media, the consensus among pundits like Gary Lineker is clear: Maguire’s "dark arts" rattled Arsenal, and the handshake snub was the ultimate sign of a team that had lost its cool along with the three points.

With the return fixture at Old Trafford looming in April, this personal feud promises to add extra spice to a fixture that rarely needs it. For now, United have the bragging rights, and Harry Maguire has the last laugh.