Gabriel Martinelli remains one of Arsenal’s most exciting attackers on his day.
The Brazilian is capable of producing moments of magic and scoring all types of goals, but his form this season has been inconsistent.
What has puzzled many is how his performances have varied depending on the competition. He has looked sharp and dangerous in Europe, but far less effective in the Premier League.
Now, Martinelli has explained why that is the case.
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Gabriel Martinelli explains why he’s flying in the Champions League but struggling in the Premier League
On the surface, Gabriel Martinelli’s numbers this season look impressive.
The former Ituano man has directly contributed to 17 goals in just 23 starts across all competitions, which is a fine record for a wide player.
However, a closer look tells a very different story, as his output in the Premier League has been underwhelming.
The winger has scored just one goal and provided three assists in the league all season. That is not the level expected from a starting attacker at a club like Arsenal.
In contrast, his Champions League performances have been outstanding. He has scored six goals and registered two assists in Europe so far.
The difference, according to Martinelli, comes down to the way games are played.
The 24-year-old believes Premier League teams are far more defensive and compact, which limits space and makes it harder for attacking players to thrive.
He said on Sky Sports: “I think it was Anthony Gordon who said one time in an interview that the Champions League, it’s more like old football.
“Everyone is trying to score, and nobody is sitting deep. There’s more space, and for me, it’s the same. In the Champions League games, we find more space, and it’s good football to watch.
“In the Premier League, sometimes, it’s just one team playing and the other one sitting back and defending. It’s a bit tricky to attack.”
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Gabriel Martinelli may have exposed his own weakness
There is truth in what Martinelli is saying – Premier League teams often sit deep and use low blocks, which makes it difficult for attackers to find space.
However, by pointing that out, he may also be highlighting a limitation in his own game.
Top players are expected to find solutions regardless of the situation, and being effective against low blocks is a crucial part of playing for an elite club like Arsenal.
If Martinelli struggles in those scenarios, it raises questions about his long-term role in the team. To be considered one of the best, he needs to adapt and find ways to influence games even when space is limited.
If he cannot do that, Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta may be forced to consider other options in the future.
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