Gabriel Martinelli was able to make a telling impact against Leicester City on Saturday.
Arsenal got back to winning ways in the Premier League with a hard-fought 4-2 win over Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners were able to take advantage of Manchester City having dropped points earlier in the day by beating the Foxes in North London.
With twenty minutes on the clock against the newly-promoted side, Gabriel Martinelli swept a Jurrien Timber cross into the bottom corner, putting Mikel Arteta’s side 1-0 up and scoring his first goal since March.
The Brazilian winger had already missed one chance in this match, and it seemed his frustrating streak in front of goal could be set to endure, before he bagged this opening goal. The strike gave Martinelli a welcome boost of confidence, as he registered an assist just before half-time.
Arsenal fans hope for upturn in Gabriel Martinelli form
Many Arsenal fans on X were delighted to see Martinelli back amongst the goals and will hope that this is a sign that he is getting back to his best.
Arsenal fans have criticised Martinelli in recent weeks, but have renewed faith in the forward now.
One said: “Back on the score sheet! He will be relentless now for another!”
Another stated: “Get back to your best and show the world what you’re all about.”
One claimed: “Martinelli definitely improved yesterday, with Calafiori being on the pitch, hmm who would’ve thought adding a left footed defender would help martinelli… Hopefully that goal helps him get some of his finishing confidence back!”
Another added: “Martinelli and Saka play well when they have the right fullbacks playing with them. That Calafiori -Timber duo will boost them immensely.”
Riccardo Calafiori gives Martinelli a boost
As indicated by a number of Arsenal fans, the integration of summer signing Riccardo Calafiori into the team at left-back appears to have given Martinelli a lift, as the pair look to have quickly struck up an effective relationship on the pitch.
Arsenal supporters have been impressed by Calafiori so far, and if his presence can also help to coax the best out of Martinelli then that would be a huge bonus for Arteta.
The Italian defender is willing to push forward up the pitch, and has the vision to pick out runs in the final third. This makes it all the more likely that Martinelli’s pace and movement will be rewarded when Calafiori is on the ball.
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