Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has raved about Gabriel Martinelli in Football.London following his performance against Newcastle United on Sunday.
Martinelli was in action for Arsenal in their Premier League game against Newcastle away from home at St. James’ Park.
Arteta was pleased with the display from the 19-year-old Brazilian forward in the 2-0 win, and has said that the teenager is progressing and developing just the way he wants him to.
The Spaniard told Football.London about Martinelli: “Gabi’s improving every week. He’s taking his minutes in the right way.
“He’s developing in the way we all believe he can. Today he had an assist, some good moments on the left and trying to play him as no.9 as well.”
How did Gabriel Martinelli play for Arsenal?
It was a rate start for Martinelli against Newcastle, and the Brazilian was so good that even some fans of the Magpies were impressed.
The Brazil Under-23 international started on the left, and the winger was willing to cut in on his right to shoot or run down the flank and put in a cross.
The forward actually ended up with the assist for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s goal in the 66th minute.
According to WhoScored, the youngster took one shot which was not on target, played four key passes, had a pass accuracy of 89.2%, won one header, took 58 touches, attempted two dribbles, made one tackle, one interception and one clearance, and put in four crosses.
Bright future
Martinelli has not played regularly this season and has had injury problems as well, but against Newcastle, the teenager showed what he is capable of.
It bodes well for Arsenal’s future that Martinelli is developing well. One must not forget that he is only 19 and is far from the finished article.
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