Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli could be set for an awkward first encounter with Christian Norgaard, if he joins the club.
The midfielder is a clear target for the Gunners, who are looking at a replacement for Thomas Partey this summer.
After Arsenal’s first bid for Christian Norgaard, there is plenty to think about where the Brentford midfielder could fit.
As a captain for a Premier League club, he would bring some leadership to the side, but there could be a problem.
That’s a potential awkward encounter between Christian Norgaard and Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal.
Christian Norgaard angered Gabriel Martinelli with tackle during Arsenal vs Brentford
Norgaard could be set for a frosty encounter if he joins Arsenal, following a previous meeting with Martinelli.
When the Gunners took on Brentford in 2024/25 at the Emirates Stadium, there was a clash that caused some concern.
Norgaard challenged Martinelli, sliding off the ground to scythe down the Brazilian in a dangerous challenge.
The Arsenal star wasn’t particularly happy with the situation as he claimed on Sky Sports: “I didn’t see that again, but in the moment, if my foot was on the floor, he could break my leg.
“He [Norgaard] said he didn’t mean it. I believe him, but still he could have broken my leg. For me, it was red. I need to see it again to be sure. But for me, it was nasty.”
It could underline an awkward start to life at London Colney for Norgaard, if he makes the switch, though it won’t be the first time that players have had to put things like that behind them to become teammates.
- READ MORE: All you need to know about Christian Norgaard including Arsenal transfer, age, statistics and more
Christian Norgaard’s record vs Arsenal
In his career so far, Christian Norgaard has faced off with Arsenal eight times, but doesn’t have the greatest record against the side.
The Gunners have only lost once when facing off with the Dane across the Premier League and cup competitions.
| Appearances | Wins | Draws | Defeats |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
While he has struggled to get results in those eight games, Norgaard has actually landed two goals and one assist against the side.
He could now go from facing off against Arsenal to walking out as a player with the Gunners.
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