Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli is showing signs of returning to his best form, as one of the best attackers in the squad.
The Brazilian at his best is a deadly threat on the left wing, with his speed and eye for goal proving vital two seasons ago.
Martinelli has struggled for consistency since, but even when his output has been frustrating, his exemplary work-rate and pace as an outlet makes him a crucial player for Mikel Arteta.
The 23-year-old is widely considered to be the fastest player in the Arsenal squad, but he has now claimed that this is not the case.
Gabriel Martinelli says Kieran Tierney is faster than him
In an interview with Arsenal club media, Martinelli was asked who he believes is the second-fastest player in the squad after him, but he claimed that defender Kieran Tierney can outpace him.
“I think Kieran Tierney is quicker than me to be fair! I think he’s the first one and I’m the second,” Martinelli revealed.
Tierney has not played for Arsenal in nearly 18 months, and is currently recovering from a long-term injury he picked up at Euro 2024.
Could Kieran Tierney be given another chance at Arsenal?
Tierney was expected to leave Arsenal in the summer, having spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad.
The arrival of Riccardo Calafiori, as well as the emergence of Myles Lewis-Skelly, have pushed Tierney even further down the pecking order under Arteta.
Tierney was a popular player when he first arrived, and many expected him to develop into a key leader within the squad. Injuries and a poor tactical fit under Arteta have since derailed him, but there may be time for one more chance.
Arsenal have suffered several injuries in their back line, and Arteta recently stated that Tierney is closing in on a full recovery.
However, Tierney has also been linked with a return to Celtic, and this appears more likely than being given a shock lifeline at Arsenal.
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