Mikel Arteta Defends His Selection Of Gabriel Martinelli

Mikel Arteta reveals he has great admiration for Gabriel Martinelli.

Arsenal’s most prolific young talent, Martinelli is a huge hit amongst the fans.

He has flown in from a fairly unknown space in South America to become an immediate hit at the Emirates. He got on the scoresheet once again on Saturday night as Arsenal cruised to a 2-0 win at home. The Brazilian counted his 17th goal contribution in just 23 starts for the Gunners.

Despite showcasing terrific ability on the pitch, Arteta has chosen against fielding him on a regular basis. In fact, the 19-year-old hardly sees the pitch under Arteta and mostly is used in a sporadic capacity.

“I think they all played really well and Gabi is improving every week,” Arteta said after the game.

“He’s taking his minutes in the right way and he’s developing the way we all believe he can. Today he had an assist, which was an important moment, and he had some good moments off the left – and also trying to play as a No 9 as well.”

On Martinelli’s playing time, Arteta added: “Just look at how much he’s played in the last few years. Then how much he’s played with me when he’s available.

“Then we can discuss that. It’s what happens. This debate is always happening when you don’t win. If it’s not him, it will be someone else. If it’s not Gabi, it will be Lacazette, Willian or Pepe. It’s part of it.

And asked about Martinelli’s relationship with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Arteta concluded: “Yeah it is a connection [with Aubameyang].

“Having Granit behind him helps him in a way because he’s more in the line, in the last line on the left where he is more comfortable. With Kieran, it’s a little bit different.

“Those relationships are ones we have to built. If there are any doubts, I love Gabi so much. More than all of you together!”