Arsenal ace Gabriel Martinelli has given an honest verdict on his competition with Leandro Trossard for a spot in the starting XI.
The Brazilian left-winger made his way into the Gunner’s team under Unai Emery in the 2022/23 campaign. He scored 24 goals in that season as he terrorised the opposition defence with his raw pace and ability to sneak into tight places.
The fans expected him to start similarly under Mikel Arteta last season. Although the youngster showed glimpses of his talent in the early stages, he scored just six goals due to fitness concerns.
Meanwhile, fellow teammate Leandro Trossard stepped up in the run-in and became the second-best goalscorer after Bukayo Saka. The Belgian’s late second-half goals were a joy to watch and the Arsenal fan base wanted to see him play more often.
MARTINELLI HAS HIS SAY ON HIS HEALTHY BATTLE WITH TROSSARD
With a new season comes a new start, and both players will be fighting to wear the Red shirt and stabilise their spot in the manager’s plans.
Martinelli was asked about his battle with Trossard ahead of the Premier League opener against Wolves. As quoted by Football London, the winger said:
“I think it’s good for the team you know. We try to do our best on the pitch to win every game, so it’s good to have two players fighting for the positions. Arsenal is happy with that and I am also so we try to give our best to win the games.”
We do agree with the 23-year-old’s words that a positive and healthy competition brings out the best from every player. Riccardo Calafiori’s arrival will keep Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jurrien Timber and Jakub Kiwior on their toes.
Zinchenko has been excellent in the preseason games and the increased competition has started to reap benefits for the Ukrainian. Similarly, Martinelli must bring his A-game whenever he steps on the field for Arteta.
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TROSSARD HAS THE UPPER HAND
Trossard has already built himself while the South American was working on his fitness following his involvement in the Copa America campaign over the summer. This was evident by the former Brighton and Hove Albion star’s performance against Bayer Leverkusen in the preseason friendly match.
He was more lethal while striking and his positioning upfront was spot on. Meanwhile, Martinelli struggled with his finishing and final ball. Although he loves to exploit open spaces, the Premier League clubs rarely offer such privileges.
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Arteta might also use Trossard as a false nine with Saka and Martinelli on the flanks. He used a similar tactic against Lyon and this might be another option for him.
Hence, striker Gabriel Jesus might also face the wrath of the 29-year-old’s fantastic form. With only Saka being guaranteed a place in the starting XI, the battle up front will be exciting to watch.
