It’s been a difficult start to the season for one member of the Arsenal squad, whose domestic troubles could now go international.
The international break has come at a frustrating time for Arsenal, who have a lot of work to do to get their play flowing more smoothly.
Having taken six points from the opening three Premier League games, Mikel Arteta will by no means be concerned, but with new arrivals to integrate into the squad, time is precious.
While the Arsenal squad are on September international duty, Arteta will revise his team’s start to the season, where one player’s role will surely be flagged.
Gabriel Martinelli faces competition in the Brazil national team
Gabriel Martinelli has been on a decline for some time now, and it appears that Arteta is starting to take note.
On matchday two, the Brazilian was an unused substitute in the Premier League for the first time in eight months, and with competition building, a reduction in game time is set to be on the cards.
It’s expected that Martinelli will spend more time on the bench this season due to the arrivals of Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, which is an issue that the 24-year-old could soon have at international level.
Ahead of the September international break, Brazilian outlet Bolavip reported that while Martinelli is currently Carlo Ancelotti’s starter on the left, his claim to the spot could be tested by Samuel Lino.
It’s noted that Lino ‘outperforms’ the Arsenal winger based on ‘offensive effectiveness’ and is a real contender to compete with Martinelli.
Given that Rodrygo was not included in the squad, pressure is on for Martinelli to use this situation to his advantage, but a stark improvement is required.
Martinelli has had a really poor start to the season, following on from two lacklustre seasons, emphasising the need for him to promptly step up.
2026 World Cup must be on Martinelli’s mind
Aside from the looming idea of losing his spot in Arsenal’s starting XI, when it comes to rebuilding form, the forward will be thinking of next summer.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 18 | 2 | 0 |
The 2026 World Cup kicks off in June 2026, and Brazil will be desperate to make a statement, failing to reach a final since they last won the ultimate prize in 2002.
Martinelli will be eager to have a role to play at the tournament, but with competition already building, the winger will need to step up to ensure he’s in Ancelotti’s plans.
It’s a decisive season ahead of Martinelli, who needs to impress for the sake of his Arsenal and Selecao future.
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