Theo Walcott says one Arsenal star has suddenly become a ‘different animal’

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Theo Walcott is still a big fan of Arsenal and watches them regularly.

The Englishman came close to winning the Premier League title at the Emirates on a few occasions, but for one reason or another, the Gunners always fell short.

Now, Mikel Arteta’s side are on top of the table and are the favourites to win it. That is down to the brilliant performances of some of his players.

Walcott seems impressed by one of them – Gabriel Martinelli.

Theo Walcott thinks he knows why Gabriel Martinelli has stepped up at Arsenal

Martinelli had two very difficult campaigns at Arsenal.

The Brazilian is fully capable of scoring goals and providing assists on a consistent basis, but for various reasons, he struggled in each of the last two seasons.

Martinelli was criticised for his performances at the start of this campaign as well, but in recent weeks, he seems to have returned to his best.

Theo Walcott believes that the former Ituano man has become a ‘different animal’ now, and the reason behind that is the attacking signings Arsenal made in the summer.

Eberechi Eze has started ahead of Martinelli on the left flank this season, as has Noni Madueke – even though he is naturally a right winger.

That competition, Walcott thinks, has pushed Martinelli to a whole new level.

He said on Amazon Prime Sport Video: “Martinelli now, there’s a different side of him. He has never had someone push him, and all of a sudden, you’ve got a different animal.

“That’s what you want. You want that competition in a positive way.”

Gabriel Martinelli knows this is his make-or-break season at Arsenal

When Martinelli had his tremendous debut season at Arsenal, every fan felt that the Brazilian was a superstar in the making.

The belief grew stronger after he scored 15 goals and provided five assists in the 2022/23 Premier League season.

However, after two difficult campaigns and speculation all summer that he could be sold, Martinelli must know that it’s now or never for him at the Emirates.

If he has another poor season, there is every chance he will be moved on, especially as Arsenal are already looking at left-wingers for the upcoming windows.

But Martinelli has been brilliant recently, and we hope he can continue that form and fulfil his potential at the Emirates.