Gabriel Martinelli gives Mikel Arteta headache after what he just did for Brazil
Gabriel Martinelli has been battling to force his way into the Arsenal first team all season but his latest international exploits will catch the attention of Mikel Arteta.
Sources told Football Insider over the summer that Arsenal were not prepared to sell Martinelli and saw him a part of Arteta‘s project.
However, with only two starts in the Premier League this season, the suggestion is that the Brazilian isn’t seen as an integral player in the starting XI.
The discontented Martinelli was tipped to already be working on a move away from Arsenal due to the lack of minutes and arrival of competition for the left-wing spot.
Yet, his recent showing on the international stage for Brazil has given a reminder to his manager to why he must be restored to the starting line-up against Fulham on 18 October.
Martinelli ruthlessly clinical for Brazil as Arteta rethinks team selection
Naturally, the Seleção is one of the toughest squads to break into with a plethora of options available to Carlo Ancelotti.
The 24-year-old has been a part of most of the Italian’s selections since he took over the national team but against Japan on 14 October, he made sure to head back to the Emirates with his head held high.
Although the Canarinhos lost 3-2 to Japan in a friendly, the number 11 was on target, scoring with his only chance and shot of the match.
His display of breathtaking efficiency highlighted his astute finishing which has improved since the start of the 2025-26 campaign.
As a result, Arteta will be considering whether the Ituano academy graduate should start against the Cottagers upon the return of the Premier League to capitalise on his excellent form.
Leandro Trossard also on target as Arteta in luxury situation over deciding who starts on the left-wing
Leandro Trossard scored the fourth goal to deny Wales any chance of a late comeback in their World Cup qualifier on 13 October.
Belgium won 4-2 as they continued to top the group with the 30-year-old popping up in the box to tuck the ball away past Leeds‘ Karl Darlow in goal.
Similar to Martinelli, the number 19 has not started every game for Arsenal this season with Eberechi Eze keeping the pair out of the team.
Nevertheless, Arteta will be scratching his head as to who to play against Fulham with all three left-wingers thriving for club and country.
Timothy Castagne will likely have a nightmare when the Premier League resumes again, regardless of who he has to deal with down his right flank.