Gabriel Martinelli produced a man-of-the-match display as Arsenal beat Liverpool
(Picture: Getty Images)Mikel Arteta has vowed that Gabriel Martinelli does not have to show him that he is worthy of a new Arsenal contract after another brilliant performance against Liverpool.
The Brazilian opened the scoring inside a minute during Sunday’s five-goal thriller in north London and also laid on an assist for Bukayo Saka before being awarded man-of-the-match honours following a dramatic 3-2 victory that saw Arsenal swiftly return to the Premier League summit.
It was the latest in a string of excellent displays from Martinelli during an incredible start to the season for the Gunners that has given rise to genuine optimism regarding a sustained title challenge.
Such a dazzling run of form has also significantly boosted the 21-year-old’s hopes of earning a bumper extension to his current Arsenal contract that is due to expire in the summer of 2024, though with the club retaining the option to trigger a further year beyond that.
But Arteta claims that Martinelli does not have to prove that he is deserving of a massive new deal.
“We don’t get directed by an individual performance,” he told reporters after the win over Liverpool. “Gabby doesn’t have to show me whether he plays well or not well today what he deserves.
“What is clear is his hunger, his determination and his love for this game. You don’t know where he’s going to reach because he’s always asking and willing for more.”
