Some key Arsenal stars have struggled to make an impact at Euro 2024 or the Copa America, but one could now be in line for a big opportunity.
William Saliba has shone for France, but he is a rare case of an Arsenal player performing well for his National Team right now.
Leandro Trossard and Jorginho were both dropped before their sides exited the competition, and there has not been much success at the Copa America either.
Former Arsenal players Matt Turner and Folarin Balogun suffered a shock exit as USA were eliminated in the group stage, with Turner criticised for his performance in goal.
Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes are in the Brazil squad, but both were unused substitutes as they reached the quarter-finals after a disappointing draw with Colombia, and both players have hardly featured.
Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes have hardly featured for Brazil at Copa America
In Brazil’s three group-stage games, neither Arsenal star managed a single start between them. Martinelli came on in the 83rd minute of the opening draw against Costa Rica, whilst Gabriel came on in the 87th in the win over Paraguay.
Whilst Martinelli did struggle for form with Arsenal, it was a different story with Gabriel, as the centre-back helped form arguably the best defence in Europe.
His centre-back partner is shining for France, but the 26-year-old has been overlooked for Real Madrid’s Eder Militao and Paris Saint-Germain star Marquinhos.
Gabriel looks set to be benched for the rest of the tournament as things stand, but Martinelli may now be handed an opportunity.
Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli could be handed Brazil chance after Vinicius Junior suspension
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior is the main man in Brazil’s attack, but he delivered an underwhelming performance, and to add to his frustration, he was booked in the seventh minute of the game against Colombia.
This yellow card, his second in the group stage, means that he is now suspended for the quarter-final clash with Uruguay. The winger was booked for a heavy challenge on James Rodriguez, and Brazil manager Dorival Junior bemoaned the decision.
“It was very strange, the booking. It was the first challenge of the game,” he stated.
The coach then called for Brazil’s fringe players, including Martinelli, to step up in the absence of Vinicius.
“People say we have to learn to play without our big stars, so now is the time.”
Martinelli will have to compete with Manchester City-bound Savio for the left-wing spot, or Brazil may shift Rodrygo there to accommodate Real Madrid-bound Endrick. However, Dorival Junior may be tempted to turn to the Arsenal ace to prove a point in what will be a tough game against Uruguay.
