Gabriel Martinelli came off the bench to score the winning goal against Japan, and after the game, Carlo Ancelotti sang the praises of the Arsenal winger,
The Arsenal winger has not had much of a look-in for Brazil; however, he came off the bench to make a huge difference against Japan.
Discuss: What is the ideal sale price for Gabriel Martinelli?
Brazil fell behind to the Asian champions, but Casemiro netted an equaliser before Martinelli produced the latest World Cup goal scored in normal time.
After the match, his national team coach had a lot to say about the winger following their 2-1 win to reach the Round of 16.
Carlo Ancelotti is a big fan of Gabriel Martinelli
Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that Gabriel Martinelli is a ‘very important’ part of Brazil’s squad following his goal against Japan.
The Italian coach believes that the Arsenal winger brings real energy to the team and allows Vinicius Jr to get into better areas.
Speaking to ESPN Brasil, Ancelotti said: “It was mainly to bring fresh blood onto the field. Martinelli has a lot of intensity.
“He’s a very important option because when he comes on, he’s always at a high level. His position allowed Vini to play a little wider.”
🤔 PICK ONE: Would you rather Arsenal signed Bradley Barcola or Morgan Rogers this summer?
Martinelli played in a more central midfield role against Japan, and the 25-year-old seemed to flourish playing in a more central role.
During this summer transfer window, Martinelli could leave Arsenal, with Andrea Berta looking to sign an elite left winger.
Morgan Rogers is one of the names being linked, and Bradley Barcola at Paris Saint-Germain seems to be another target.
Noni Madueke reacts to Gabriel Martinelli’s goal
Noni Madueke reacted to Martinelli’s goal during England’s press conference ahead of facing DR Congo.
The Arsenal star hailed his teammate after learning he had just scored the winner, but does not want his form to continue should they meet one another in the quarter-finals.
Speaking to the media, Madueke said: “Top, top, top! I’m happy for him. I hope he continues to do extremely well, just NOT if they play us!”
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
