Introduction: Arsenal winger in struggle for his spot in future
Gabriel Martinelli was Arsenal’s sweetheart for years. His quality, pace, and cheek brought him to be the most exciting young player in the Premier League. But now, Brazilian winger Martinelli will have to fight perhaps the biggest fight of his career.
With Arsenal bringing in Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, Martinelli’s place in the starting lineup is under real threat. The question is whether he can fight back and secure his role in Mikel Arteta’s plans
Martinelli’s Journey at Arsenal
Martinelli joined Arsenal as a teenager from Ituano, Brazil. Few of the fans knew about him then, but soon he became known. His speed, work rate, and goal-scoring made him a phenomenon.
He also found the net with precious goals in cup competition and in the Premier League. He was rated among Europe’s best young strikers by most. Arteta often spoke about his work rate and attitude, calling him a “fighter.”
But as Arsenal grew more potent, competition for position became more intense.
New Arrivals Change the Picture
This summer, Arsenal signed Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke. Both players are versatile attackers who can play on the wings or behind the striker. Their arrival increases depth but also puts Martinelli’s spot at risk.
Eze brings creativity, ball control, and flair. Madueke offers pace and direct dribbling. Together, they give Arsenal more attacking options. For Martinelli, this means fewer guaranteed minutes.
The Pressure on Martinelli
Last season, Martinelli had mixed performances. At times, he was brilliant, scoring and assisting with ease. At other times, he struggled with consistency. Injuries also slowed him down.
Now, with fresh signings, Arteta has choices. If Martinelli cannot deliver, he may be rotated or even dropped to the bench. That is not what he or the fans want.
What He Brings to the Team
Martinelli’s strengths are clear:
- Blistering pace down the left wing
- Thorn in the side for defenders consistently
- Finishing within the box key
- Work rate and desire every week
All these qualities are the things that make him special. Not many players possess pace and hunger like he does. Because of that, all the supporters still believe that he should be starting weekly.
Areas He Needs to Improve
In the meantime, Martinelli has some things he needs to address. His performance in the third final can be fine-tuned. Sometimes he shoots too early or makes the wrong pass. He should also tighten up the link-up play with the striker.
If he is able to sort those out, however, he can be unbeatable. But he must remedy that as soon as possible, especially with Eze and Madueke for his position.
Arteta’s Role
Mikel Arteta has never had a problem with Martinelli. He enjoys his work and his hunger. But Arteta also values competition. He would rather players earn their spot.
If Martinelli performs, Arteta will reward him. If not, there are other players that will seize the opportunity. No one is spared from competition in the team constructed by the manager.
What This Means for Arsenal
It is good for Arsenal to have some quality wingers. Fixture congestion and injuries require them to have depth. Having Martinelli, Eze, Madueke, and Bukayo Saka, Arteta has the choice to rotate.
But for Martinelli, it is that there is constant pressure on him. The fans may not even get to see him every week. Instead, he will be fighting to win his minutes week in, week out.
Author’s Opinion
I believe Martinelli has a massive future at Arsenal. He is too gifted and ambitious to fade away. And the signings of Eze and Madueke are a wake-up call. He can’t put his foot on the brake.
The season will decide his future in the club. If he delivers with goals, assists, and consistent performances, he will prove his worth. Otherwise, Arsenal may quietly fade away.
My view is that Martinelli has the fight in him. He has beaten injuries and tougher conditions previously. Now, with even more competition hanging over his head, I am certain that he will give everything on the field and make everyone see the reason why he was revolutionized into a star in the first place.
