Martinelli could be Arsenal’s “shining light” once fully fit

There hasn’t been a lot of good news coming out of north London of late, however, there might be one shining light on the horizon, and that is Gabriel Martinelli.

The fan favorite featured for 45 minutes during Tuesday’s Under-21’s match v AFC Wimbledon. All reports indict he played well, was aggressive, was confident on the ball, but was out of gas by end of the half. That’s to be expected for a player who has been injured and in rehab for months on end.

Now, Mikel Arteta needs to develop a plan to work the Brazilian back into the first team, but this needs to be a slow and deliberate plan. He can not be rushed in fear of re-injury (ala Thomas Partey).

Arteta had this to say about the 19 year-old, “Gabi is another one that even in a moment of adversity, you see him training and everything he brings to the team, his energy, his passion, his motivation, is translating positive emotions to everybody. He tries and goes and goes again and he wants to score a goal. He’s ruthless in training in every single action and the more players and staff you have to add that, at the end that gets translated to what happens on the football pitch and over time you will be stable. Gabi’s pressing brings something different to the team and we need players like him.”

Once completely fit and healthy, Martinelli’s spunk and passion will be a huge benefit for Arteta’s squad as they attempt to find goals, and win games.

Now, don’t expect too much too soon from young Martinelli, however, just his presence alone on the pitch will be a huge benefit for Arsenal.

cheers.

Gunner1953