Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli is a doubt for Sunday’s vital clash with Manchester City, but there is still a chance he returns for the game.
Mikel Arteta’s side will travel to the Etihad Stadium for what is arguably their biggest game of the season so far, and the result could define how the rest of Arsenal’s season pans out.
Martinelli missed the last two Arsenal games prior to the International break with a cut on his foot, and his absence was felt. Despite Leandro Trossard scoring against Porto, Arsenal were not attacking with the same fluidity as with the Brazilian’s pace in the side.
However, given his injury, it has now been mooted that a risk should not be taken over Martinelli, ahead of a two-legged Champions League tie against Bayern Munich.
Arteta warned of Gabriel Martinelli risk ahead of Man City vs Arsenal
Speaking on Charles Watts’ YouTube channel, CBS journalist James Benge claimed that Martinelli’s speed will be so important against Bayern, that he should not be risked against City if his fitness is doubtful.
“I would probably play it safe with Martinelli as well, because you know that is an injury – a cut on your foot if you go play 90 minutes of football could well reopen no matter how well stitched up it is,” he stated.
“I think he would be the one I would apply the most caution to, and also he will be the one that could be most effective in the weeks ahead against Bayern, whoever they play at right back, especially for Joshua Kimmich, his pace would just be so valuable in those games.
“It just feels like he’s the one that would be the biggest gamble, so the one that you’re shrewdest to avoid messing with.”
Who should Arsenal start on the left wing against Man City?
If Martinelli is fit to start, even for just 60 minutes, then he should be in the lineup. Arsenal’s attack suffered against Brentford and Porto without his speed, and given the magnitude of the game, as well as the opposition, his speed will be a necessity.
Arsenal do have a hectic schedule, and if Martinelli does start, then he may be rested against Luton in midweek to prepare him for Bayern.
The Brazilian scored the winner off the bench in the reverse fixture against City, but the away fixture promises to be tougher, and the Brazilian could be crucial on the counter-attack.
If the 22-year-old is unable to start, then having him on the bench, like in the home fixture, could be significant, and Gabriel Jesus could be a strong candidate to replace him on the wing.