Ian Wright said Gabriel Martinelli deserves more respect from Arsenal, questioning the club's handling of the winger's potential exit. The 25-year-old Brazil international made 53 appearances and scored 11 goals last season, as Arsenal won the Premier League.
Martinelli’s 2023-24 Season Stats
Martinelli joined Arsenal from Ituano in 2019 and has been a regular in Mikel Arteta’s squad. He played 53 games across all competitions this season, netting 11 goals. Despite his contributions, he was omitted from the squad for the league opener against Coventry, a 3-0 victory, and also left out of the Community Shield win over Manchester City.
Squad Exclusion and Transfer Speculation
Wright told Sky Sports that Martinelli “doesn’t know what’s happening” and is “not being spoken to.” He added that Arsenal have invited offers for the winger and that the club might want him out. Martinelli has already turned down a move to Galatasaray and would be looking to join a top European club if he leaves the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal’s depth on the left wing has been highlighted by the signing of Christos Tzolis, who impressed in Martinelli’s preferred position against Coventry. The club also tried to sign Vinicius Jr, another left-winger, before the Brazilian signed a new contract with Real Madrid. Wright said that if Arsenal bring in both Vini and Tzolis, Martinelli could feel “third in the pecking order.”
Arsenal’s Response and Future Plans
The Gunners deny that Martinelli is being frozen out, insisting his absence is due to squad depth. They view him as one of their most sellable assets, alongside Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira. Arteta said that the club must be honest and transparent with players, especially when “the end is coming.” He stressed that “everything has a start and an end” and that decisions should be made with respect for the player.
Arsenal want to make at least one significant sale before the transfer window closes. The club has made it clear that Martinelli is available for transfer, and they are prepared to negotiate a deal that suits both the player and the club’s future plans.
The situation remains fluid, with Wright’s comments highlighting the need for better communication between the club and its players.
