Gabriel Martinelli’s place in the Arsenal XI looks like it could be under threat.
Leandro Trossard has arrived in north London, and he’s taken to life under Mikel Arteta like a duck to water.
The Belgian was brilliant against Manchester United off the bench last weekend, and he was also fantastic against Manchester City on Friday night.
With Trossard’s arrival, Martinelli now has a new challenge to overcome. The competition between the two could be just the push that Martinelli needs to reach the next gear in his progression. Trossard’s impressive performances have set the bar high, and Martinelli will have to work harder than ever to prove himself worthy of being a starter.
Trossard’s arrival could light a fire under the Brazilian, as Martinelli will now have to be at his best in every training session and every match if he wants to keep his place in the starting lineup for the long-term.
The pressure to perform will be a positive for Martinelli. He’s a young player with a lot of potential, and this competition will force him to step up his game. He’ll be pushed to work harder, and that can only be a good thing for his development.
Martinelli can be absolutely fantastic, and he’s been brilliant this season, but he’ll have to be at his best on a weekly basis if he wants to keep his place in the team after Trossard’s bright start to life at the Emirates..
Simply put, Trossard’s great performances in his first two games is a reminder of what’s expected of Martinelli.
Mikel Arteta and Arsenal may be about to see Martinelli go to the next level as he looks to bat off the threat of Trossard, and that is a frightening thought for the rest of the league.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
