Staff at Arsenal are all in agreement when it comes to one thing about the future of Gabriel Martinelli after his difficult season.
Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli is currently representing Brazil at the Copa America, who will get their tournament campaign underway against Costa Rica tomorrow.
The forward is joined in the national team squad by Arsenal teammate Gabriel Magalhaes, whilst Gabriel Jesus was not called up to feature in the competition.
Martinelli will be desperate to impress for his country, whilst Mikel Arteta will be hoping that the 23-year-old can rediscover his best form and begin to rebuild his confidence whilst on international duty.
The Arsenal man did not enjoy his finest campaign last time out for the Gunners. In 44 appearances for the North London club, across all competitions, he was able to chip in with just 8 goals and 5 assists.
This return represents a significant drop off from the previous season, when Martinelli racked up 15 goals and 6 assists in 46 outings.
The 11-cap international needs to get back to his best, and quickly. When on top form, he has the capacity to dazzle for Arsenal, and Arteta needs Martinelli firing on all cylinders again.
Arsenal still have vision for Gabriel Martinelli
Despite his indifferent recent form, no one at the Emirates Stadium is yet ready to give up on Martinelli.
After all, it is normal for young players, still honing their craft and gaining experience, to undergo fluctuations in form. As such, no one at Arsenal will be panicking about Martinelli’s underwhelming season.
In fact, expectations remains very high for the player. As reported by The Athletic: “Arsenal’s faith in the 23-year-old is not shaken. Under contract until at least 2027, he remains an important part of Arteta’s plans.
“Arsenal’s decision-makers believe last season was an anomaly in Martinelli’s development, and that he will kick on again next season.”
He is certainly well-respected in the dressing too. Jesus recently revealed his first impressions of Martinelli, after their initial meeting, and was astonished by his talent.
How Mikel Arteta can get Martinelli back to his best for Arsenal
Arteta just needs to keep being patient with the player, affording him the time he needs to play his way back into form.
It ought not be forgotten what an exciting talent Martinelli is. With his flair, searing pace, and composure in front of goal, he has the capacity to be an Arsenal great, if he can work his way through this difficult period.