Gabriel Martinelli has broken his silence after signing a new contract at Arsenal. The 21-year-old has penned a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Gunners, which keeps him at the club until 2027.
Last month he entered the final 18 months of his tenure at the Emirates Stadium, thus courting the interest of several top-flight European sides. Eager to secure Martinelli's future, Arsenal have included the option to extend his stay by a further year.
The Brazil international has featured 27 times for Mikel Arteta's side this season, directly contributing towards 10 goals. His impressive displays have significantly contributed towards the north Londoners' title charge.
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Arsenal are five points clear of Manchester City and also have a game in hand. But, the two sides are yet to lock horns in the Premier League this season leaving silverware all to play for.
And, after penning a new deal, Martinelli has claimed that he's 'excited' for what the future holds. In a heartfelt message posted to Twitter, he wrote: "The journey continues.
"I'm so proud to have signed another contract with The Arsenal family. From the moment I joined the staff, my teammates and the supporters have made me feel at home. I'm excited for what the future holds at this special club. COYG."
Then, speaking to the club's website, Martinelli said: "I feel amazing, I’m really happy in getting the new contract. I want to do my best for the team and for the fans as well, to give back to them and make them proud.
"I’ve said it many times, I love everything about Arsenal. I love the city, I love my teammates, I love the fans, I love the club and I’m going to try my best for this football club."
"We need to win trophies," he added when he asked about his long-term goals at Arsenal. "I think not just me but everyone in that dressing room wants to go to the games to win them, and for our fans.
"To them, I would just like to say thank you for all the support. They’ve been amazing with me this season. The atmosphere in the stadium this season has been unbelievable and I just want to say thank you. I will give 100 per cent every single day for this football club."
Edu and Mikel Arteta are just as delighted. Speaking to the club's website, the sporting director said: "It’s great that Gabi has signed a new contract with us.
"The foundations of our squad continue to be built on young talent, so it’s great that Gabi has signed a new contract. Gabi is still just 21, and a player with big ability and personality. He is an important part of our future and we’re delighted that we have agreed a new contract."
The Gunners boss added: "We're delighted Gabi has signed a new long-term contract. Our supporters see his quality and energy every single time he puts on the shirt and he's the same every day in training, with his hard work and positive values.
"Gabi is still very young, so we know there’s still much more to come from him and it’s great that we'll be on this journey together. We're now excited to continue to develop his huge talent and look forward to seeing him perform with Arsenal in the years to come."
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