Arsenal Star Gabriel Magalhães Donates £15 Million To Fund Homeless Shelters In London And São Paulo.
Arsenal’s beloved centre-back, Gabriel Magalhães, has made headlines with an extraordinary act of generosity, donating his entire $20 million (£15 million) bonus and sponsorship earnings to a homeless shelter initiative. The 27-year-old Brazilian footballer announced the remarkable contribution on Thursday, 17 July 2025, aiming to fund 180 housing units and 360 shelter beds across London and his hometown of São Paulo, Brazil.
The initiative, which has been warmly received by communities in both cities, will support the construction and operation of shelters designed to provide safe accommodation and support services for those experiencing homelessness. In London, the funds will bolster local charities working to address the capital’s housing crisis, while in São Paulo’s Pirituba district, where Gabriel was born and raised, the donation will help establish vital resources for vulnerable populations. This act of philanthropy reflects Gabriel’s deep connection to his roots and his commitment to giving back to the communities that shaped him.
Gabriel, who has become a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defence since joining from Lille in 2020, expressed his motivation for the donation: “I’ve been blessed with so much, and I know what it’s like to come from humble beginnings. I want to help those who are struggling, whether it’s in São Paulo or London, where I now call home. This is about creating hope and a safe place for people who need it most.” His donation is one of the largest individual contributions to homelessness initiatives by a Premier League player in recent years.
The funds will be channelled through partnerships with established charities in both cities, ensuring that the shelters are equipped with essential amenities, including mental health support, job training programmes, and community integration services. In London, the initiative is expected to provide immediate relief to hundreds of individuals, while in São Paulo, it will address the growing challenges faced by the city’s homeless population. Local authorities and charity leaders have praised Gabriel’s generosity, noting that the donation will have a transformative impact.
Fans and teammates alike have taken to social media to celebrate Gabriel’s selflessness, with many calling him a role model both on and off the pitch. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta commented, “Gabriel is not only a leader in our squad but also in our community. His heart and dedication to helping others are truly inspiring.” The donation comes at a time when Gabriel, sidelined by a hamstring injury since April 2025, continues to demonstrate his influence beyond football.
This act of kindness adds to Gabriel’s growing legacy, both as a formidable defender and a compassionate individual. As the shelters take shape, his contribution is set to leave a lasting legacy, offering hope and support to those in need across two continents.
