Mikel Arteta Thinks Martinelli Is ‘Very Close’ To Earning A Starting Place

Mikel Arteta thinks Gabriel Martinelli is pushing for a starting spot at Arsenal.

The Brazilian scored the winning goal against Crystal Palace before Nicolas Pepe sealed off the win in the dying seconds.

Martinelli’s optimistic positioning in the box was picked out by Martin Odegaard’s curling cross to give The Gunners all three points. Arteta has made Martinelli work for his minutes all season, only giving him a start when senior players are injured.

When asked about handing him a starting role, Arteta said: “Very close. He needs to keep fighting to be closer and closer.

“We need to understand where the boys are in the phase of their development and what they have done already this season and last season.

“I know that we want to play with 11 academy players under 20, but guys, who is doing that? We are doing more than anybody and they are going to have the chances, they are earning their chances, it’s not like we are giving the chances. They are earning the chances and it’s a joy to have them with us.”

Many fans would like to see Martinelli start over some of the senior players in the squad. The youngster has shown great potential and intent ever since he came into the club under Unai Emery.