Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta lavished praise on Gabriel Martinelli, who starred in Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Brentford on Sunday.
The Gunners dominated the game and are now back at the summit of the Premier League table with 18 points.
William Saliba opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a superb header before Gabriel Jesus doubled their advantage with his fourth goal of the season.
The home side had no way of getting back into the game when Fabio Vieira struck from long-range on his full Premier League debut.
Arteta was pleased with the performance of his players and praised Martinelli for his display.
He said (as per football.london): “If you look at the game he played a year ago here and today, it is just incredible how fast they grow, they mature, they recognise situations, execution levels, and their understanding. He looks like a different player. I thought he was really good today.”
Martinelli joined Arsenal in the summer of 2019 from Brazilian club Ituano.
The 21-year-old failed to make a huge impact during his first two seasons as injuries kept him on the sidelines.
However, things improved for the Brazilian last term as he didn’t face any fitness issues. He bagged six goals and seven assists in 36 appearances across all competitions.
The Brazil international has now become a regular in the first team. He has started seven Premier League matches, with three goals to his name. He is forming a good relationship with Bukayo Saka and Jesus.
Arteta has been using him as a left-winger, but he can also play through the middle.
Martinelli is still very young and seems to have a great future at the Emirates Stadium.
