Full Breakdown
Arsenal’s Handling of Gabriel Martinelli Sparks Former Striker’s Critique
8/22/2026, 8:00:21 PM
Core Event: Martinelli Omitted from Early-Season Matches
Gabriel Martinelli, the 25-year-old Brazil international, was left out of Arsenal’s matchday squads for both the FA Community Shield win over Manchester City and the Premier League opener against Coventry City, a 3-0 victory at the Emirates. Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright said the winger “doesn’t know what’s going on” and described the club’s approach as “uncomfortable.” Arsenal have reportedly received a €45 million bid from Galatasaray for the player and are said to be exploring a sale before the transfer-window deadline on September 1.
Background & Context
Martinelli joined Arsenal in 2019 as an 18-year-old from Brazil and has been part of the squad that captured the 2025-26 Premier League title. Over seven seasons he has delivered “big moments” in key games, according to Wright. The club’s summer activity includes the failed pursuit of Vinícius Júnior, the signing of left-winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge, and ongoing interest in other attacking options.
Data & Statistics
- Appearances (2025-26): 53 in all competitions – Arsenal’s season records.
- Goals: 11 – Arsenal’s season records.
- Contract: Expires in 2027, leaving “a year left” on the current deal – club documentation.
- Transfer offer: €45 million from Galatasaray – Arsenal’s reported bid.
Official Statements & Responses
A source close to the club, who wished to remain anonymous, indicated that Martinelli had been spoken to about his exclusion ahead of the Coventry match, though the club has not issued a formal comment on any impending transfer.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Some reports claim Martinelli has told Arsenal he does not want to move to a league outside the top five, while the club has not confirmed his stance.
- No official statement from Arsenal has addressed whether the €45 million Galatasaray offer is being actively negotiated.
- Details of any alternative offers or the player’s personal preferences remain unverified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If you bring Vini (Junior from Real Madrid) in, that kind of level in, Martinelli can say to himself, ‘Well, OK they’ve brought him in and Zsolis, I might be third’,” — Ian Wright
- “As I said, I'm really happy with the squad that we have, and the main focus is to improve the players that we already have because we already have a lot of good teams.” — Mikel Arteta
- “ ? View 2 Images Gabriel Martinelli has been touted with a move (Image: ) When asked to clarify what he meant about the treatment, Wright added: "Not being in the squad tonight, not being spoken to, doesn’t know what’s going on.” — Ian Wright
- “In respects to Martinelli and the way Martinelli has been treated at the moment it really makes me feel uncomfortable,” — Ian Wright
What’s Next
Arsenal must decide Martinelli’s future before the transfer-window closes on September 1, when the deadline for player registrations is scheduled to expire.
