Joao Martinelli, father of Gabriel Martinelli has shed some light on the rumors that have linked the youngster with a move away from Arsenal this winter transfer window.
The 20-year-old joined the Gunners in 2019 and has made 56 appearances across all competitions. He scored 12 goals and has registered seven assists in the process. He also earned a spot in the Brazil squad for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
However, the Brazilian has been struggling to break into the team, having just managed four starts this season. His lack of game time has prompted speculation of a move away to Brazilian club Corinthians.
Martinelli did spend four years at Corinthians during his youth career before joining Ituano. Despite the lack of minutes, the forward’s father has ruled out the chances of him making the switch to another club in January.
Joao Martinelli revealed that there were no chances of a return to Corinthians and brushed the rumors aside. He has admitted to receiving offers from other clubs, but the Gunners were firm on their stance of keeping the youngster.
As quoted by Yahoo Brazil, Joao Martinelli said to the reporters:
“There is no chance of him going to Corinthians or any other Brazilian club. Since he came back from an injury, he’s been playing a lot less than he would have liked. They even painted some proposals from Europe, but Arsenal has already warned that they will not release him.”
“People like him a lot. Not only for what he plays, but also for his dedication. Martinelli is almost always the first to arrive for training and the last to leave.”
Arsenal Fever view:
Gabriel Martinelli is one of the most talented youngsters at the club now. His lack of game time is worrying, but Mikel Arteta has just found the right combination of players. He has fallen behind the pecking order upfront. Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe have cemented their spots on either flank, making him a surplus to requirements.
The lack of European football means there isn’t much room for rotation in the squad. Usually, the winter schedule is a hectic one that could see the Spaniard make some changes to the squad.
The departures of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Nicolas Pepe during the AFCON would leave a huge void in the squad. This presents a perfect opportunity for the Brazilian to work his way back into Arteta’s plans.
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