Arsenal return to Premier League action this weekend as Nottingham Forest visit the Emirates. The match marks their first league game since the Liverpool defeat at Anfield before the international break.
The Gunners faced criticism for their attacking display against the champions, and Gabriel Martinelli became a focal point for scrutiny. The Brazilian winger has struggled to find consistency in recent weeks, surprising some supporters who expected other options after Arsenal’s £300m summer investment.
Trust in Martinelli
Despite recent struggles, Martinelli remains one of the most reliable wingers in executing tactical instructions and defensive duties. Manager Mikel Arteta trusted him on the left wing at Anfield, where every fine margin mattered.
One moment captured his recent difficulties. During a first-half counter-attack, Martinelli kept the ball instead of passing to striker Viktor Gyokeres, losing possession and forcing a goal kick. Fans highlighted this as a sign of overthinking and diminished confidence.
Understanding the Struggles
Martinelli works hard and cares deeply about his Arsenal success. He monitors social media criticism and team discussions, which can weigh on performance.
Last season, he scored 10 goals in 51 games and provided six assists, solid but below expectations for a top winger in a title-challenging side. His best moment came in the Champions League, scoring the decisive goal at the Bernabeu to secure a semi-final berth.
Changes in Arsenal’s style may contribute to his recent struggles. During his standout 2022-23 season, Martinelli thrived in open, attacking play, scoring 15 goals and providing six assists. Arsenal played more freely then, finishing second in the Premier League for the first of three consecutive seasons.
Tactical Changes Affecting Performance
Since that season, Arteta has shifted Arsenal toward a controlled, considered build-up style. Martinelli prefers open spaces, and this change can limit his attacking freedom. Injuries to Arsenal attackers last season compounded difficulties, and Martinelli also faced fitness issues.
This season, Arsenal adjusted again, adopting a more direct, transitional approach to benefit striker Gyokeres. This could suit Martinelli, one of the fastest players in the Premier League, allowing him to exploit spaces behind defenses.
Competition on the Wings
Martinelli faces limited time to regain form. Arsenal strengthened with Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, and Leandro Trossard as left-wing options. Madueke has also played on the right wing during Bukayo Saka’s absence. Eze replaced Martinelli at Anfield and brings versatility, often acting as a number 10.
Martinelli compared Arsenal competition to Brazil’s national team, where he battles Vinicius Jr for a left-wing spot.
Looking Ahead
Martinelli holds two years on his contract, with an option extending until 2028. Discussions of a summer sale occurred but were shelved due to his previous season’s form. Arteta continues to trust him, starting him in key away matches.
Martinelli remains a potential high-value asset, yet fans hope he rediscovers the form that brought 15 league goals three seasons ago. The upcoming matches offer a chance to silence critics and restore confidence.
