Speaking on the Highbury Squad YouTube channel, Kevin Campbell has been discussing Gabriel Martinelli and his place in this Arsenal team.
The Brazilian has been brilliant in recent weeks. Most notably against Liverpool, where, despite Arsenal being defeated, he was incredible down the left side.
However, despite Martinelli’s exhilarating performances down the left, Campbell claims that many want Martinelli moved to the number nine position.
What’s been said?
Campbell gave his view on Martinelli and shared what he’s heard.
“Smith Rowe came in and did well, especially in the first half. Martinelli though, we know he’s a threat, we know he can do some incredible things too,” Campbell said.
Campbell then spoke about Martinelli again later in the video.
“Rumour has it, everyone wants Martinelli to play as a number nine, but Martinelli’s game isn’t about coming to feet and linking, especially in traffic. I’d rather protect him, so if he plays as a nine, I think he needs to play alongside Lacazette who will do the grunt work.”
Makes sense
Playing Martinelli as a number nine makes a lot of sense. After all, that would allow Smith Rowe to return to his position on the left.
However, as Campbell says, Martinelli isn’t the best when it comes to dropping between the lines and linking up play, and he’d need someone alongside him to do that.
Sadly, that means another player in another position would have to be sacrificed to switch to a two-striker formation, and that would lead to yet another tough decision for Mikel Arteta to make.
It remains to be seen where Martinelli ends up, but it certainly feels as though his long-term future may not be on the left wing.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
