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Mikel Arteta delivers Gabriel Martinelli verdict ahead of West Ham clash

Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Gabriel Martinelli ahead of the Premier League clash with West Ham.

The Gunners boss lauded the 21-year-old’s progress and says he can still get so much better.

Martinelli has been a real success story at the Emirates Stadium since joining back in 2019.

In his first season, he became the first Arsenal teenager to score double figures since Nicolas Anelka.

Martinelli then had a spell in and out of the starting XI, but now he is an indispensable member of the team.

Arsenal FC - Premier League
Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images

This season, the Brazilian has 14 goals and four assists from 30 Premier League outings.

His efforts have helped Arsenal go top of the Premier League table as they pursue their first title since 2004.

“He’s playing more games that’s for sure,” Arteta said at his pre-match presser, as per football.london.

“He’s got another year of experience, huge understanding with his teammates.

“The way he approaches those games it’s to be the best. I’m not surprised about that.

“The good thing is there’s still a lot to improve.”

Our view

Arsenal have struck gold with Martinelli, signing him for just £6million from Ituano.

As a young, world-class forward, he would easily be worth £100million now, in our opinion.

Arsenal pulled off a real masterstroke in signing him, and best of all, he’s one of many top talents in the team.

The Gunners really do look as if they have a bright future with such a talented squad and a harmonious dressing room.

Martinelli is all-but guaranteed to start against West Ham as Arsenal look to maintain their healthy lead at the summit.