Martinelli says Arsenal have got a ‘huge talent’ in 19-year-old, has spoken to him

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Gabriel Martinelli has told a press conference – as per Hayters TV – that Arsenal have a “huge talent” in 19-year-old attacker Marquinhos ahead of his side’s Europa League clash against Zurich on Thursday night.

Marquinhos, a summer signing from Sao Paulo, scored in the opening Europa League game against Zurich – in Switzerland. He also got an assist in the 2-1 away win, supplying the cross for Eddie Nketiah to net the winner.

He then started in a win over Bodo/Glimt and came on as a sub against PSV Eindhoven. But the remaining two games have seen Marquinhos miss out. It is unclear if he will be in the squad to take on Zurich at The Emirates.

Speaking in his press conference ahead of the match, fellow young Brazilian Martinelli – who is slightly more senior – praised Marquinhos. He says the £3million signing is a “huge talent” and has spoken to him about his potential.

“What I can do for the boys I will do, I try to help as much as possible,” Martinelli said. “I always try to say to him to be yourself, and do what you know because we’re both here because of our talent.

“You need to believe in yourself, so he needs to keep doing it because everyone at the club knows that he has a huge talent,” Martinelli continued, when asked about the young Arsenal talent ahead of tonight’s match.

Martinelli: Arsenal have a huge talent in Marquinhos

In his first couple of outings and from what Arsenal fans have seen from the winger, £3million looks a steal. His form in the 21’s, in which he has made four appearances in Premier League 2, has also been impressive. Scoring three.

With there being a lack of cover for Martinelli and Bukayo Saka – or at least, a big drop off in terms of quality – Marquinhos has the opportunity to show he can provide that role. Emile Smith-Rowe remains sidelined after surgery.

Reiss Nelson, though, came off the bench against Nottingham Forest to score twice in a 5-0 win. Nicolas Pepe is out on loan. So, there is space for Marquinhos to progress. He is showing all the signs he will do, too.