Granit Xhaka has backed Marquinhos to mirror Gabriel Martinelli's rapid rise through the ranks, suggesting he could play an important first-team role for Arsenal this season.
Marquinhos, 19, became the Gunners' first signing of the summer as he joined in a £3million transfer from Sao Paulo in June. He has been training with the senior squad during pre-season and his most recent appearance came in the 4-0 victory over Chelsea in the United States in late July.
This suggests Mikel Arteta may have big plans for the Brazilian during the campaign proper as he continues to put his faith in young players. Martinelli, 21, is another player to benefit from the manager's emphasis on youth and racked up a career-high 36 appearances in all competitions last term, scoring six goals.
