Arsenal delivered a strong performance to beat Sevilla in the Champions League on Wednesday night, and Gabriel Martinelli was particularly impressive.
The winger helped break an eight-year record as he terrorised Sevilla right-back Juanlu Sanchez, and he was given the player of the match award.
Martinelli provided an assist for Bukayo Saka’s goal which made it 2-0, in a comfortable victory for the Gunners at the Emirates, in a big step towards qualification for the last 16.
Arsenal legend Martin Keown praised Martinelli’s contribution in the victory, highlighting just how good the Brazilian was on Wednesday night.
Keown praises Martinelli following Sevilla victory
Speaking on TNT Sports commentary at full time of the match, Keown admitted that Martinelli was outstanding.
“Martinelli was absolutely ridiculous. He had the full-back on toast!” Keown stated.
Martinelli completed nine dribbles in the game, constantly beating Sanchez down the left-hand side, and it was a difficult night for the Sevilla youngster.
Martinelli’s dribbling ability
Martinelli’s astonishing speed is what makes him stand out ahead of Arsenal’s other options on the left-wing, and his absence was noticeable when he missed a few games with injury.
His ability to dribble past fullbacks to get in behind the defence is one of the best in the Premier League, and his 15 league goals last season showed that he is capable of both scoring and stretching defences from the wing.
The 22-year-old has developed into a phenomenal player under Mikel Arteta, and he is now tearing defences apart in the Champions League, and has also earned a call-up to the Brazil squad.
Arsenal fans will be hoping that Martinelli can stay fit for the rest of the season, with it clear that he is now one of the most important members of the squad, and he will be aiming to continue his fine form.
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