Gabriel Martinelli is set to leave Arsenal in a transfer that brings sadness and regret to the Emirates. The Athletic reports the 25-year-old winger is close to finalizing a €70 million move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, a departure that is against his wishes.
This news comes as Arsenal sit ninth in the Premier League with three points from their opening game, a win that leaves them three points behind leaders Manchester City. The club's next challenge is a home fixture against third-placed Chelsea on September 6th, a match they will approach with several key players sidelined. The current injuries list includes Gabriel Jesus, Jurriën Timber, William Saliba, and Bruno Guimarães, alongside the departing Martinelli.
Why is Gabriel Martinelli leaving Arsenal?
Financial considerations and squad renovation have made Gabriel Martinelli expendable this summer. Arsenal's need to address their balance sheets, combined with a strategic refresh of the left side of their attack, has pushed the Brazilian towards the exit. Newcomer Christos Tzolis has made a strong early impression, and the sale of cult hero Leandro Trossard also signals a shift. Market forces played a part too, with reported reluctance from clubs in Spain or Italy to meet high transfer fees, making the lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia the most viable deal.
Martinelli joined Arsenal as an 18-year-old from Brazilian side Ituano in 2019. He was one of three young players, alongside Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe, who transformed the mood at the club under Mikel Arteta. He became an integral part of the team that ended Arsenal's 22-year wait for the Premier League title in May, celebrating with his father at Selhurst Park by placing his winner's medal around his neck. He was the only player from that trophy-winning group originally signed under the previous regime, and only he and Saka featured in the pre-Arteta era.
What was Gabriel Martinelli's impact at Arsenal?
Gabriel Martinelli's impact was significant. He established himself as a pacy and exciting forward, making the leap from Brazil's regional leagues to European football. His most prolific league season came in the 2022-23 title challenge, where he scored 15 goals. Over the past five seasons, he consistently hit double figures for combined goals and assists. Last season, he managed 18 goal involvements and was a couple of penalty kicks away from being the top scorer in Arsenal's run to the Champions League final, a campaign where they came mighty close to lifting the trophy.
A memorable moment was his breakaway goal that sealed a 2-1 win against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu 16 months ago. Fans adored him, chanting "His name is Gabi! He’s from Sao Paulo! And he plays for Arsenaaal…" Martinelli himself expressed deep affection, saying, "I love everything about Arsenal. I love the city. I love my team-mates. I love the fans." He was always keen to sign new contracts and never wanted to leave.
What does this mean for Arsenal's season?
The departure of Gabriel Martinelli marks the end of an important chapter. It follows the sale of Leandro Trossard and comes as Gabriel Jesus closes in on a move to Barcelona. These exits represent a substantial overhaul of Arsenal's attacking options as they defend their Premier League crown. With three goals scored and none conceded so far, the team has started positively, but the loss of such a familiar figure will test the squad's depth. Supporters can track the evolving squad and the tight standings as the season progresses. The move generates puzzlement because Martinelli was a proven performer who delivered in big moments, and his exit is driven by finance rather than form.
