Gabriel Martinelli’s dad has poured cold water on the rumor that his son will be leaving the Gunners for Corinthians in January
By Kehinde Okeowo
Talented Arsenal striker, Gabriel Martinelli, arrived at the London club in 2019 but has found it difficult to pin down regular playing time at the club despite his ability.
He started both the Brentford and Chelsea matches in the Premier League but has played just five Premier League games this season under Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
The 20-year-old has been linked to the Brazilian club, Corinthians, where he played for 4 years at the youth level, due to a lack of game time at the Emirate.
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Despite his lack of Premier League minutes, Gabriel Martinelli’s father Joao has quelled rumors linking him with his former club.
According to The Mirror, the forward’s father said the youngster isn’t considering quitting the Emirates just yet.
He also said the club is not ready to release him, adding that his son is fully committed to Arsenal.
“There is no chance of him going to Corinthians or any other Brazilian club!
“Since he came back from an injury, he’s been playing a lot less than he would have liked. They even painted some proposals from Europe, but Arsenal has already warned that they will not release him.
“People like him a lot. Not only for what he plays but also for his dedication. Martinelli is almost always the first to arrive for training and the last to leave.” Joao Martinelli said.
Arsenal gaffer, Mikel Arteta reiterated the same position in October, when he said the club will not let the player leave the club on loan in January.
The Spaniard also added that the player’s progress was hampered by his recurring injuries.
“We have a lot of trust with Gabi and we need to find space for him to grow within the squad. If you look at the number of games he’s played, the injuries have been a big setback for him.
“We sometimes forget his age and we need to try and help him maintain that balance because you can generate frustration that comes out of, in my opinion, a not very realistic diagnosis and we need time.
“I’m very happy with him, we are not thinking about anything like that [a loan],” Artesia said.
Since joining Arsenal, Martinelli has scored five goals in 33 Premier League appearances.