Gabriel Martinelli’s goal might have been scored late, but it was in the works even before kick-off.
After Martinelli’s tough start to the season put immense pressure on the Brazilian, he finally upped the standards.
The winger was Arsenal’s hero against Athletic Club on matchday one of the Champions League, and on matchday five of the Premier League, he was there to impact the scoreline once again.
Martinelli made the difference against Manchester City, as the Gunners secured a late point against Pep Guardiola’s side, scoring an equaliser in the 93rd minute.
Gabriel Martinelli’s girlfriend reveals story about his goal against Manchester City
Ian Wright was shocked that Martinelli was benched against City after his goal and assist in midweek against Athletic Club.
The Arsenal legend wasn’t the only one to be surprised by the winger’s omission, as Martinelli’s girlfriend revealed messages between her and the Arsenal star.
As relayed on X by DailyAFC, Martinelli’s partner, Isabella Rousso, had responded to the forward being left out of the starting XI by predicting the impact he would have.
After Martinelli said, ‘I won’t play tomorrow’, Rousso replied, ‘Go get the tired guys in the second half and score a goal, you’ll see.’
The Brazilian’s girlfriend knew that the 24-year-old would have an impact against City’s tired legs, which is just what happened.
Eberechi Eze caught City’s back line off guard upon spotting Martinelli’s run in behind, with the 2019 signing getting on the end of the pass and scoring sensationally past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Mikel Arteta praises Martinelli’s attitude
Martinelli had received a lot of criticism in the opening stages of the season, with competition in the squad making things more difficult for the winger.
Time has shown that it’s actually been a blessing in disguise for the Brazil international, who has stepped up in response to being dropped by Arteta.
After the draw against City, Arteta applauded Martinelli’s mentality when speaking in his post-match press conference.
“He’s in a really good moment again after the game he had in Bilbao, and that period of time probably, he deserved more, but his energy again, his attitude was really good, and that’s why he made the impact that he made again for the team.”
Martinelli’s head hasn’t dropped since he’s been forced to take up a spot on the bench, giving him a chance to fight for a return to the favoured XI in a stark turn of fortune.
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