Gabriel Martinelli believes that there is something special about Arsenal.
Arsenal attacker Gabriel Martinelli has now opened up about what he loves most about life at London Colney.
The Brazilian is a fan favourite at the Emirates Stadium, and is clearly hugely appreciated by Mikel Arteta as the 22-year-old is a nailed-on starter on the left wing. One of the reasons Martinelli is so valued is that he is willing to work so hard at both ends of the pitch. Veteran midfielder Jorginho has previously lauded the winger for his commitment to helping out the Arsenal defence.
Of course, the nine-cap Brazil international is also a brilliant attacker. He boasts lighting pace, flair, and can be a lethal finisher if put through on goal. He is habitually able to get beyond opposition defenders with the ball at this feet and find space in dangerous areas.
If there is one area in which Martinelli needs to improve, though, it is with his end product. He has struggled slightly in that regard this season, with just four goals and three assists to his name after twenty appearances, across all competitions. Arteta will be hoping that the player becomes more efficient and clinical in the final third with more experience, as he certainly has all the talent required to be prolific at the highest level.
Gabriel Martinelli provides insight into life at Arsenal
One thing that is sure to help Martinelli with his development is the fact he is so happy at the Emirates Stadium. Ever since his arrival as a teenager in 2019, his teammates have helped him settle into life in London, where he now feels entirely at home.
The forward recently discussed this settling in process and the atmosphere at Arsenal with the club’s official website. He said, “in truth it felt like everyone made the effort with me…We have something here that is just special. Every player who joins this football club is just made so welcome right from the start, obviously by the players but also by the training ground staff. The manager and the coaches are responsible for it too. This is a place that everyone wants to be part of. It’s a family and a really good club to be at.”
“The way that people welcomed me here was special and I’ve been trying to do the same for every new player. It was an example for me. I always try to make their lives as easy as possible because I know how hard it can be when you arrive somewhere and you don’t speak the language or know many people. I always try my best to help. When you’re a family, you stick together at all times. We’re always there, side by side, trying to help each other.”
Arteta will be delighted to hear that Martinelli feels this way. The Spanish coach has previously preached the importance of unity within a squad and club, and routinely refers to Arsenal as a family. Such harmony in the dressing room can only serve to improve performances and chemistry on the pitch, and will also make players more likely to want to join the club and sign new contracts, as Martinelli himself did in February.
Martinelli has been able to strike up a number of close friendships in his time at Arsenal, most notably with Portuguese attacking-midfielder Fabio Vieira, who he considers a friend “for life.”
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