Gabriel Martinelli’s form at Arsenal is under scrutiny after a drop in performance. Tactical changes, competition from new signings, and the pressure of expectations are factors. His future depends on rediscovering his past form and adapting to the team’s evolving style.
Arsenal's return to Premier League action sparks a critical examination of Gabriel Martinelli's role in the team. Following a disappointing performance against Liverpool, where the team's attacking output was heavily scrutinized, Martinelli found himself at the center of the criticism. As Arsenal prepares to face Nottingham Forest, questions arise about the Brazilian winger's form and future with the club.
Despite Arsenal's significant summer investment of nearly £300 million, Martinelli's starting position at Anfield raised eyebrows among supporters. While his tactical discipline and defensive work rate are highly valued by manager Mikel Arteta, his recent performances have lacked the spark and creativity expected of a top winger. A specific moment in the Liverpool game, where Martinelli failed to capitalize on a counter-attack opportunity, opting to retain possession rather than playing in Viktor Gyokeres, epitomized his struggles and fueled the debate about his place in the team.
Image source, Getty ImagesGabriel Martinelli has struggled for form in recent months for Arsenal
Several factors could be contributing to Martinelli's dip in form. The pressure of social media criticism and the awareness of discussions surrounding his place in the team can be detrimental to a player's confidence and ability to perform spontaneously. While his previous season's statistics were respectable, they may not be sufficient for a top winger at a club with title aspirations and Champions League ambitions.
Arsenal's tactical evolution under Arteta may also be playing a role. The shift towards a more controlled and considered build-up contrasts with the more open and free-flowing style of play that allowed Martinelli to thrive in the past. His natural inclination to exploit open spaces is somewhat restricted in the current system.
Furthermore, injuries to key attacking players and Martinelli's own fitness issues during the last campaign hampered Arsenal's creativity against defensively compact teams, leading to a reliance on unsuccessful crosses. Arteta's recent tactical adjustment, incorporating a more direct and transitional style to maximize the potential of striker Viktor Gyokeres, could potentially benefit Martinelli, offering him opportunities to utilize his speed and exploit spaces behind opposition defenses.
However, Martinelli faces stiff competition for his place in the team. The arrival of Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, along with the presence of Leandro Trossard, provides Arteta with a wealth of options on the left wing. Madueke's versatility, having been deployed on both flanks, and Eze's ability to beat players and operate in multiple positions further intensify the competition. Martinelli himself has acknowledged the challenging competition at Arsenal, comparing it to the competition he faces in the Brazilian national team with Vinicius Jr.
With two years remaining on his contract and a club option for an additional year, Martinelli's future at Arsenal remains uncertain. While there were internal discussions about a potential sale during the summer, the club ultimately decided against it, believing that his recent form would not command a desirable transfer fee. Despite this, Martinelli is still highly regarded by Arteta, as evidenced by his starts in crucial away games. However, it is understood that he is among a select group of players who could be sold for a significant sum to generate funds for further investment. The hope for Martinelli and Arsenal supporters is that he can rediscover his previous form and contribute significantly to the team's success.