Arsenal attacker Gabriel Martinelli has now revealed what he said to Bukayo Saka after the win over Sevilla.
Both Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka were in blistering form for Arsenal as the Gunners beat Sevilla 2-0 in a Champions League group stage tie on Wednesday.
Arsenal fans were blown away by how well Martinelli played against the Spanish side, whilst Saka looked to be back to his best as he contributed a goal and an assist.
Saka’s goal came in the second half and was set up by Martinelli. The Brazilian played the Hale End academy graduate in on goal. Saka showed great composure and technique to run onto the ball, cut inside the attendant Sevilla defender, and fire into the back of the net.
Mikel Arteta will have been delighted to see both of his young wide men firing on all cylinders and combining effectively once again.
Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka bringing the best out of each other
After the match, Martinelli joked about Saka owing him for the assist. As quoted by the club’s official website, the 22-year-old said, “I told him that he’s going to have to pay me for dinner! I’m so happy with the win and for his goal as well.”
It is vital that both Saka and Martinelli can stay fit and in form as much as possible this season. The attacking duo are talismanic figures at the Emirates Stadium, and are integral to how Arteta wants his team to play.
Unfortunately, Saka left the field a few minutes early against Sevilla having picked up a knock late on. There was an optimistic update on Saka’s condition after the match, and Arteta will be hoping that the 30-cap England international didn’t sustain any serious damage.
Assuming Saka is unhurt, he will likely start, along with Martinelli, against Burnley on Saturday. If the pair can replicate their levels from Wednesday night this weekend then there is every chance that they will tear Vincent Kompany’s newly-promoted strugglers apart.
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