Match Coverage

What Gabriel Martinelli did at full-time vs Crystal Palace is a serious concern for Arsenal

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Gabriel Martinelli was not joyous at full-time despite Arsenal’s hard-fought win against Crystal Palace.

Eberechi Eze scored the only goal of the contest, earning Arsenal three points against his former club.

The result took Arsenal four points clear at the top of the Premier League table, but not everyone was happy.

Martinelli was given the chance to trouble Crystal Palace, coming on in the 66th minute, but the Brazilian did not end the fixture with a smile on his face.

FBL-ENG-PR-ARSENAL-CRYSTAL PALACE
Photo by HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP via Getty Images

Gabriel Martinelli limped off after Arsenal’s win against Crystal Palace

Mikel Arteta has a dilemma with Martinelli, as the Arsenal manager continues to face a headache when it comes to selecting his starting left-winger.

Leandro Trossard was selected ahead of Martinelli once again in the Premier League, though it wasn’t the selection decision that might’ve dulled the winger’s afternoon.

Post-match, journalist Simon Collings noticed that Martinelli headed straight down the tunnel at full-time, appearing to be limping.

Live from the Emirates, Collings spotted that an Arsenal physio caught up with Martinelli upon seeing the 24-year-old limping, following the player into the dressing room.

It’s a concern for Arsenal, as William Saliba was hooked early against Crystal Palace, with worry now setting in because of Martinelli. 

The idea of Martinelli being injured would be a nightmare for Arteta, who is already short on the left side.

Aside from the Brazilian and Trossard, the Gunners are out of luck when it comes to a natural left-sider, with matters not made easier by Noni Madueke’s layoff.

Martinelli struggled to do anything against Palace

The potential injury to Martinelli would be a disaster, not only due to the depth issue but also for the winger, who was unable to impress during his cameo.

Despite being on the pitch for 24 minutes, the Brazil international only managed to record ten touches on the ball.

Gabriel Martinelli vs Crystal Palace
10 touches
1 successful pass
7x possession lost
0 duel wins
0 shots
Gabriel Martinelli vs Crystal Palace – Sofascore.

When he was in possession, Martinelli was unable to make anything happen, completing just one pass and failing to fire a shot on goal or complete a cross.

It was an outing to forget for Arsenal’s number 11, whose main concern will be remaining fit amid his struggle to get back into the starting lineup.