Arsenal icons Paul Merson and Mikael Silvestre agree that youngster Gabriel Martinelli has a huge future ahead of him at the Emirates Stadium. The Brazilian has got his season up and running in ideal fashion so far, scoring two goals in the opening two games to help the side earn all six points on offer.
The goals may have come at an important moment for the 21-year-old to cement his place in the starting lineup, having started over Emile Smith Rowe due to his early injury concerns. His performances have managed to catch the eye, leading Mikel Arteta to praise him for his development.
After victory over Leicester City, the Spaniard told the official Arsenal website: "This boy [Martinelli] - the way he is developing so quickly is just incredible. It’s his hunger, his character and desire to be better every single day and the ambition that he has to play this game.”
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Martinelli will be hoping he can continue to impress over the course of the season, with competition for places as tough as its ever been at the club. For Arsenal icon Merson, he believes that the youngster can be a superstar but under one condition.
Speaking to Sportskeeda, he said: "Gabriel Martinelli is a very good footballer, I just hope the kid can stay fit and get a run of games under his belt. He's an unreal outlet and has got great pace and skill, while he has also shown that he can score this season. If he can stay injury free, I genuinely believe he's a superstar in the making!"
This was a similar sentiment shared by former defender Silvestre, who believes that Martinelli could go on to win the Young Player of the Year award. Discussing his thoughts with BettingExpert, he said: "For sure. No doubt [he can contend for the Young Player of the Year award].
“He is showing an amazing pace, and ability to take on players. He is experienced also. He is growing, he is a very good learner; a fast learner. I am excited to see him play this season.”
It remains to be seen whether he can hit the heights set by those in and outside the club. However, he has got off to the perfect start at doing just that with his double so far.
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