Gabriel Jesus has now shared his honest assessment of Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli from the first time they met.
Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli have both been key figures in the Arsenal attacking contingent in the past.
However, neither of the Brazilian forwards could produce their best form for the Gunners last season. Jesus mustered just four Premier League goals over the course of campaign, whilst Martinelli slipped behind Leandro Trossard in the pecking order in the second half of the season.
In the case of Martinelli, his loss of form cannot be deemed entirely unexpected simply because such fluctuations are common in the development of young players. Mikel Arteta will back the 22-year-old to get back to his best next season. Arsenal legend Thierry Henry is certainly confident that Martinelli can shine again.
On the other hand, Jesus’ recurrent knee injuries have led to doubt that he can ever recover his best level. The 27-year-old was a revelation when he first arrived at the Emirates Stadium, bringing flair and dynamism to the Gunners’ front line. Now, though, Arsenal are said to be open to offers on Jesus.
Due to his fitness record, Arsenal may struggle to attract suitors for Jesus. Therefore, both he and Martinelli are likely to be part of Arteta’s squad and plans for next season. The duo both have a point to prove and will be desperate to repair their somewhat dented reputations.
Gabriel Jesus recalls first meeting with Arsenal ace Gabriel Martinelli
Jesus is convinced that his younger compatriot has what it takes to make it at the very top of the game. Speaking on the official Premier League YouTube channel, the striker recalled his first encounter with the wide man.
It is safe to say that Martinelli immediately made a positive first impression on Jesus, who said: “I met him in national team. Normally, Brazil calls some young players to train with us and he was one of them. I was like, ‘wow, what a player!’”
Does Mikel Arteta need to replace Jesus
Whilst few people would argue against showing patience with Martinelli, there is certainly a sense that the Gunners are willing to upgrade on Jesus. Kai Havertz has now usurped him in the pecking order as the first-choice centre-forward and Arsenal are on the hunt for a new striker.
The Gunners were keen on Benjamin Sesko, before he opted to remain with RB Leipzig. Arteta will surely now pivot to alternative targets who, if they come to the club, will threaten to restrict Jesus’ opportunities further.