Martinelli Shines in Arsenal's Draw Against Manchester City
Gabriel Martinelli's stoppage-time equalizer highlights that it is premature to dismiss his Arsenal career.
The Brazilian winger has enjoyed a remarkable week, contributing a goal and an assist in Arsenal's Champions League victory over Athletic Club, followed by earning a crucial draw against Manchester City.
Despite losing his starting position—having started only two of Arsenal's six matches this season—Martinelli has demonstrated his significance when performing at his peak.
Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott commented to BBC Sport, "You can either sit there and sulk about things or reflect on how to positively impact your situation. I don't think he has faced constant challenges for his position before. Last year, he was a regular starter, but this year he must accept being in and out of the lineup. However, he is approaching it the right way, as he is a hard worker and a grafter."
The 24-year-old is among the fastest players in the Premier League, and both of his goals this week showcased his strengths, as they were set up for him to exploit the space behind the opposition defense.
Martinelli stated, "I work for those moments. I leave selection decisions to the gaffer; he knows what he is doing. I just aim to do my best for this football club. Of course, I don't want to be on the bench. I want to play 90 minutes every game, but [Mikel] Arteta knows best, and everyone trusts him."
Having struggled with confidence, Martinelli is aware of discussions surrounding his place in the team. Walcott noted, "As a player, you must navigate the mixed messages that arise when you aren't starting every match. After scoring against Athletic Club, he must have thought he would start against City, only to see Trossard start instead. How do you respond? He clearly chooses to get on with it."
Arteta has emphasized the importance of "finishers" in Arsenal's strengthened squad following a £250 million summer spending spree. Walcott remarked, "I thought the change was made too late; even for someone of his ability, he often needs time to get into the game. Still, it worked because he is the only player who likes to make those unselfish runs behind the defense. His impact off the bench is a testament to his attitude, which can go either way for a player in his situation."
Walcott believes there has never been doubt about Martinelli's talent, but questions remain over his status as a regular starter. "He has witnessed new arrivals and has been linked with other clubs, yet he continues to focus on his game, demonstrating his character. This is the first time he has faced real competition for his position, and Arteta's strategy is yielding results we haven't seen before. Martinelli is channeling a controlled frustration, proving to Arteta that he is trustworthy, which is crucial as managers frequently test players throughout the season."
Teammate Declan Rice echoed this sentiment, stating, "Since I joined the club, he has delivered significant moments. Some players might sulk when benched, but he showcases his heart and desire. His run and finish were extraordinary; he fully deserves it, and he is one of the nicest guys you could meet. He came on and created a moment of magic."
Arteta's Selection Debate
Arsenal limited Manchester City to just 32.8% possession in their recent match, marking the lowest possession average for a Pep Guardiola team in the Premier League. Arteta is the first manager to remain unbeaten in five consecutive matches against a Guardiola side, yet questions persist regarding his starting lineup choices.
Arsenal's midfield featured Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, and Mikel Merino, but the team struggled to create chances in the first half, frustrating the home crowd. This same trio was employed in the win against Athletic Club and the loss to Liverpool, leading to scrutiny of Arteta's selections.
Merino was substituted at halftime against City, along with Noni Madueke, who had sustained an injury. However, Arteta refuted claims that this indicated a mistake in his team selection, stating, "No, that would be too simplistic. It was clear what we aimed to achieve. We started the game very well and dominated. After they scored without much prior action, we were a bit shaky for five to seven minutes, but we regained control and continued to dominate in the second half with different players."
Merino again started as an advanced midfielder, and Arteta pushed back against the notion that his team was too conservative, given the attacking talent available, saying, "No one questioned my midfield trio in Bilbao, did they?" This resistance is understandable, considering Arsenal's midweek victory, but it was the substitutes who ultimately made the difference. Arsenal displayed increased intensity after Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze were introduced at halftime, adding a goal threat to their first-half dominance.