Arsenal were outmuscled by Liverpool on the night but there was at least one positive to come from the game. Gabriel Martinelli has previously been lauded by Reds boss Jurgen Klopp and the Brazilian forward showcased his attacking credentials in what was arguably one of his best individual performances all season.
While other players looked rusty and tired, Martinelli’s tireless running and tormenting of Trent Alexander-Arnold down the channels sent a reminder as to why Klopp rates him so highly, and why Arsenal’s project needs to ‘bang’ sooner rather than later.
"Martinelli by the way...everybody should remember that name,” Klopp previously said. “Outstanding player.”
READ MORE: Arsenal player ratings vs Liverpool as Martinelli shines
In truth, it was a disappointing result for Arsenal but one that was expected after winning five games in a row. Liverpool are a different quality of team to what they’ve faced in recent weeks, and they know how to carve out results even when their performance isn’t of the highest quality.
Described as the "talent of the century" by Klopp, football.london understands that Klopp is a long-term admirer of Martinelli and would love to see the Brazilian ply his trade at Anfield.
The Gunners will see Wednesday night’s game as a blip and come up against an in-form Aston Villa side on Saturday lunchtime who will be looking to add further damage to Arteta’s side.
They face a tough April set of fixtures against Crystal Palace, Brighton, Southampton, Chelsea and Manchester United, all of whom are fighting either survival or European qualification.
It will be a testing period for an Arsenal side who were humbled at home in the Emirates on Wednesday night, but the promise of their young talents serves as a reminder that their season is not over just yet.
