Mikel Arteta has admitted to Arsenal’s official website that Gabriel Martinelli has ‘something special’, but he cannot be put under too much pressure.
Martinelli has just returned from injury for Arsenal, and many supporters are putting their faith in the Brazilian sparking their attack into life.
Martinelli reached double figures for goals last term, in what was his first season in English football.
With Arsenal struggling to hit the back of the net with any consistency, there is hope that Martinelli’s comeback will help to improve their results.
But Arteta says that Martinelli cannot carry too much responsibility for turning Arsenal’s season around, even though he is a brilliant talent.
“We cannot put that pressure [of being the club’s ‘saviour] on his shoulders,” Arteta said.
“It’s not fair for him. He brings that enthusiasm that the fans can see because he’s got something special, a special energy every time he steps on that field.
“But remember that Gabi, what he’s done in the Premier League the time that he’s been with us is very limited. Let him develop, like we are doing with many other young kids that we have here.”
Martinelli came off the bench for Arsenal against Everton in their last match, but he was unable to turn the tide in his side’s favour.
Arsenal sunk to a 2-1 defeat at Goodison Park, as they fell even closer to the relegation zone.
Martinelli could receive more game time tonight, as Arsenal are in action against Manchester City in the League Cup.
If the youngster can impress then the calls for him to start are only likely to grow louder.
Eddie Nketiah, Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre Emerick Aubameyang have all struggled when featuring as Arsenal’s central striker this term, meaning there is definitely a place available up-front.
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