Gabriel Martinelli, the guy who made 53 appearances and bagged 11 goals last season as Arsenal won the Premier League title, was straight up left out of the squad for their league opener against Coventry. This isn’t just a one-off; the Brazil international was also a no-show for the Community Shield victory against Manchester City. What gives? Arsenal has actually been inviting offers for the forward, and former Gunners striker Ian Wright is absolutely fuming about the disrespect.
What Is Even Happening With Martinelli?
Seriously, what in the world are Arsenal doing here? Wright laid it all out on Sky Sports, saying the way Martinelli’s being treated makes him “feel uncomfortable.” This isn’t some bench warmer; Martinelli has notched 62 goals in 278 appearances for Arsenal since joining from Ituano in 2019, being a core part of Mikel Arteta’s squad the whole time. Wright is saying Martinelli doesn’t even know what’s going on, hasn’t been spoken to, and certainly wasn’t involved in the squad, which is just wild after everything he’s given the club. You’d think a player who’s done that much, especially in a title-winning season, deserves a little more transparency, a little more respect. It’s a bummer, honestly.
Arsenal’s “Strength In Depth” Defense Just Isn’t Cutting It
Arsenal’s official line is they aren’t freezing him out, and his absence is all about their “strength in depth.” They’re talking up new signing Christos Tzolis, who apparently impressed on the left wing against Coventry. Plus, they were chasing Vinicius Jr. before he re-signed with Real Madrid. Wright isn’t buying it completely, though. He acknowledged that if they brought in a superstar like Vinicius, Martinelli could understand being third in the pecking order. But when it’s Tzolis and Noni Madueke on the other side? Wright thinks Martinelli should still be able to compete. To be “nowhere near it,” as Wright put it, just feels sad for the guy. Arteta himself talked about the “reality” of players leaving, saying “everything has a start and has an end,” but that it should be done with “respect and admiration.” Sounds like a fancy way to say goodbye to a fan favorite, especially when Arsenal views him, along with Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira, as their most “sellable asset.”
So, what’s next? Martinelli has already turned down a move to Galatasaray, clearly looking for a top European club if he’s forced out. Arsenal wants at least one big sale before the transfer window closes. It’s a tough situation for a player who’s put in so much, and you have to wonder what this means for Arsenal’s locker room if they treat their title-winning players like this. The guy wants to play, and if Arsenal doesn’t want him, he deserves to find a top club that does.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by BBC Sport.
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