Gabriel Martinelli Faces Scrutiny as Arsenal Future Reportedly Hangs in the Balance

Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli is under increasing pressure to deliver consistent performances, with pundits and former players voicing frustration over his recent form. Among the most vocal critics is talkSPORT host Alan Brazil, who didn’t mince words when discussing the Brazilian’s decision-making and impact on the pitch.

🎙️ Alan Brazil: “Martinelli Does My Head In”

Speaking candidly on his radio show, Brazil questioned the effectiveness of Martinelli’s play, particularly his reluctance to take on defenders and deliver decisive crosses.

“Martinelli, he does my head in, right? He is willing, he is game, but when does he ever take someone on, get to the byline and whip it in?” Brazil said, highlighting the winger’s lack of directness and assertiveness in wide areas.

The criticism comes amid growing concerns about Martinelli’s inconsistency. While he showed flashes of brilliance during the 2022–23 season—scoring 15 goals and providing six assists in 36 Premier League appearances—his output has dipped significantly since. Over the last 97 games, he’s managed just 18 goals and 11 assists, a return that has left fans and analysts wanting more.

⚔️ Competition and Contract Uncertainty

Martinelli’s place in the starting XI is far from secure this season. With Arsenal bringing in attacking talents like Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, the Brazilian faces stiff competition for minutes. Former Gunner Theo Walcott also weighed in, expressing disappointment that Martinelli failed to exploit Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai—playing out of position at right-back—during their recent clash.

The club reportedly considered selling Martinelli earlier in the summer, but suitors failed to meet Arsenal’s £60 million valuation. Offers peaked around £40 million, and the Gunners opted to retain the player rather than risk a drawn-out transfer saga.

⏳ A Make-or-Break Season Ahead

With no significant talks underway regarding a contract extension—his current deal runs until 2027—Martinelli is effectively playing for his Arsenal future. If he fails to improve his goal contributions and overall influence on matches, the club may revisit the idea of selling him next summer.

For now, the spotlight is firmly on Martinelli. Arsenal fans will be hoping he can rediscover the form that once made him one of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents. But with competition mounting and patience wearing thin, the margin for error is shrinking fast.