Arsenal fans in full agreement over Gabriel Martinelli vs Inter Milan – I was there, they are right

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal fell to a frustrating 1-0 defeat to Inter Milan at the San Siro, and fans had plenty to say about Gabriel Martinelli.

The Brazilian endured a difficult campaign last season as he struggled with injuries last season, and his inconsistent form has continued.

Despite a slight resurgence with goals against Leicester and Southampton, Martinelli has underwhelmed in attacking areas, and Arsenal are suffering for it.

Martinelli was again frustrating as Arsenal lost 1-0 to Inter Milan, and fans in the stadium were starting to lose patience. I was also in the away end at the San Siro, and spoke to some of the supporters who were concerned about the 23-year-old.

• READ MORE: I went to Inter Milan vs Arsenal at San Siro and it was a nightmare, we were treated disgracefully

Arsenal fans lose patience with Gabriel Martinelli

Martinelli was an incredibly popular player when he first came into the team, and two seasons ago, his electric performances on the left wing made him a fan favourite.

However, he looks far from his best self, and is clearly lacking in confidence. Some fans did point this out, in defence of the attacker.

“He’s completely devoid of confidence, but he’s shown his ability before, I hope this is just a blip,” one fan told me after the Champions League game in Milan.

However, another fan did then point out how long it has been since Arsenal saw Martinelli at his best.

“He’s been off it for 18 months,” another fan interjected. “It’s incredibly frustrating, every single time he’s on the ball he makes the wrong decision.”

Fans were previously patient over Martinelli’s struggles, believing that he can be played back into form, but it now appears that this patience is gone.

“Martinelli cannot be a starter next season. He works hard for the team and is more useful than [Raheem] Sterling in that sense, but we can’t rely on someone so inconsistent,” a third fan stated.

“I’d happily keep him as a squad player, but we have to sign a top quality winger to replace him in the starting lineup,” he added.

Gabriel Martinelli is running out of time as an Arsenal starter

Martinelli hit great heights two seasons ago, but he has failed to do so since, with several factors coming into play.

There has been inconsistency over the support he has received at left-back and in midfield, with the departure of Granit Xhaka clearly having an impact.

However, his lack of confidence means that even basic actions have been a struggle, with Martinelli now failing to take on defenders or cut inside and shoot.

Martinelli’s work-rate will mean that he always has a place in the squad under Mikel Arteta, and his speed will make him an invaluable substitute, but if he cannot raise his performance levels before the end of the season, Arsenal will have to find an upgrade on the left wing.