Gabriel Martinelli’s journey from Arsenal’s premier left-winger to a rotational option has been nothing short of a compelling narrative this summer. After an impressive stint of 25 Premier League starts last season, the Brazilian now finds himself amidst intense competition for a starting role in Mikel Arteta’s selection. With the recent acquisition of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, Martinelli’s position has been thrust further into uncertainty.
In addition to Eze, Arsenal’s forward line is poised with the likes of Noni Madueke, who frequently operates on the left, although recent injuries to Bukayo Saka may open up opportunities on the right flank. If Madueke is preferred in Saka’s absence, Martinelli must vie with Eze and Leandro Trossard for a place on the left. Notably, Trossard, who recently extended his contract with the Gunners, made a substitute appearance against Leeds United last weekend, possibly hinting at Martinelli’s current standing within the squad hierarchy.
The forthcoming encounter against Liverpool at Anfield promises to offer further clarity on Arteta’s attacking inclinations. With Saka unlikely to feature due to injury, Madueke may slot into the right wing, leaving Eze—newly integrated into the squad with a full week of training—as a potential starter. Arteta could opt for the 27-year-old to invigorate his side’s attacking potency.
Despite a resounding 5-0 victory over Leeds, it is worth noting that three of Arsenal’s goals came from set plays, highlighting a paucity of open-play goals with just two from seven in the season’s initial couple of fixtures. Arteta, while indifferent to the source of goals, will undoubtedly seek to enhance the team’s threat in live situations if Arsenal are to make headway on multiple fronts.
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