‘If I can’ – Arsenal man contrasts team-mate with major transfer declaration after Arteta sway
Gabriel Martinelli has vowed to stay at Arsenal for as long as he can – perhaps his entire career – after enjoying his time at the club so far.
The 20-year-old striker signed for the Gunners from Ituano in his native Brazil in the summer of 2019. He could have signed for Manchester United, but four trials at Old Trafford came and went.
Instead, he moved to north London and quickly integrated into Unai Emery’s team. What’s more, he has not looked back since that moment.
In fact, Martinelli has made a total of 71 appearances, scoring 16 goals for Arsenal.
However, after Emery’s sack in November 2019, the forward is particularly enjoying life under current manager Mikel Arteta.
Indeed, Arteta has built a promising young team with Martinelli and academy graduates Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka at its heart. Despite a tough start to the season, the Gunners are now firmly in the hunt for a top-four Premier League finish and Champions League football.
Speaking to ESPN Brazil, Martinelli in fact stated that he would like to stay at Arsenal for the rest of his career – a sentiment not exactly shared by team-mate Granit Xhaka.
“We have a young group, we have a lot of time ahead of us, players with a lot of quality,” the striker said. “I think we will achieve great things.
Martinelli eyeing Arsenal success
“Our focus is the Champions League. Fighting for that top four. A club like Arsenal has to be in the Champions League. It’s our total focus.
“We always want more. Of course, Arsenal are a giant team.
“If I can, I’ll stay here my whole life. I want to conquer things, as I said, I want to stay here and win titles, with these wonderful fans, my team-mates.”
Reports have also claimed that Martinelli, who often plays on the wing, has been playing as a striker in training.
Arsenal let Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang leave on a free transfer to Barcelona in January. Furthermore, Eddie Nketiah and Alexandre Lacazette will leave in the summer as it stands.
Arsenal are reportedly planning a new striker signing in the summer transfer window. Nevertheless, Martinelli – whose contract runs until 2024 with the option of an extra year – will still have a key role to play.
Arsenal eyeing Champions League qualification
Martinelli has scored four goals and assisted three others in 23 games for Arsenal in all competitions this season.
Seven of those contributions came in an impressive six-match Premier League run.
Despite his lack of direct impact since then, one of those goals came in a crucial 2-0 win over top-four rivals West Ham.
The Hammers, Manchester United, Tottenham and Wolves are all scrapping for fourth place.
Although, Martinelli added that he also has eyes on a spot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar with Brazil.
“I’m working towards that, doing my best, so that Arsenal can qualify for the Champions League first and, consequently, get a spot in the World Cup,” he said.
“It’s every player’s dream to play in a Champions League and World Cup. This season, I can compete for a spot in the Champions League and consequently win a spot in the national team.”
Arsenal return to action on Sunday when facing Watford at Vicarage Road on Sunday.
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