“There will always be competition” : Arsenal legend reacts to Mikel Arteta not dropping Gabriel Martinelli over Belgian winger
Over the past couple of seasons, Arsenal have built a solid foundation in their squad, with key players all over the pitch. However, the only area where fans are split between who to start are on the wings, particularly the left wing.
While the right wing is thoroughly covered by one of the best in the world in Bukayo Saka, there has been a debate regarding who should start on the left, Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard. Both these players have shown cases for themselves as to why they should be the one starting over the other.
Gabriel Martinelli has had a sturdy couple of seasons, where the Brazilian has shown he can provide quality and width, and always making key in behind runs. Based on eye test, one can say that the 23-year-old proves to be a greater threat than the Belgian, who is clear when it comes to providing goal contributions. Most recently, the 29-year-old came off the bench replacing a struggling Martinelli and scored a quality goal while being the main target man for the rest of the game.
David Seaman does not have an issue with starting Gabriel Martinelli over Leandro Trossard
After hitting the back of the net and celebrating in a rather unconventional ‘muted’ way, it was revealed by the Gunners manager Mikel Arteta that the Belgian was rather upset for not starting games, but is always happy to provide important contributions whenever he is approached to.
Many fans and pundits have argued that the 29-year-old deserves a chance to start over the Brazilian, but former Arsenal goalkeeper and legend David Seaman does not mind seeing the Belgian coming off the bench.
“I don’t see what the problem is. There always will be [competition for places]. Even if it’s the other way around, if he [Trossard] starts first, Martinelli would come on. I think we all know that on that [left] side, that’s where we have the balance with Trossard and Martinelli. On the right side, we only have Buyako Saka,” said the Englishman (via Metro).
“He’s got credit from last season and the way he performed last season. Mikel Arteta sees him as a more consistent performer from the start,” said the 60-year-old regarding Gabriel Martinelli’s form.
Whether Mikel Arteta gives the Belgian his well-deserved start or not is unknown for now, it would not really be surprising if the Spainard does switch the two on a regular basis, depending upon who they are up against and what playstyle is required. Arsenal plays Leandro Trossard’s ex-club Brighton next matchday, where the Belgian would certainly like to prove a point to any of his doubters.
