Gabriel Martinelli’s playful post-match comments perfectly captured the growing chemistry between Arsenal’s attackers after their convincing 3-0 Premier League win over Sunderland today.
The Brazilian winger was instrumental at the Emirates Stadium, providing assists for Viktor Gyökeres’ second-half brace as Arsenal strengthened their grip at the top end of the table, a scenario SoftFootball highlighted in its preview of the Gunners’ bid to tighten their title push against the Black Cats.
Beyond the result, the performance underlined how naturally Martinelli and Gyökeres are beginning to link up in key attacking areas. Martinelli’s contribution was not just about the final pass but also about timing, awareness, and trust in his striker’s movement.
Gyökeres, who was recently crowned Arsenal’s Player of the Month for January, once again showed why he has become such a central figure in Mikel Arteta’s attack. The pair repeatedly found themselves in similar positions around the box, forcing Sunderland’s defence into constant decisions over who to track.
That developing understanding was clear to see, and Martinelli was happy to acknowledge it with humour after the final whistle. Reflecting on their on-pitch relationship, Martinelli explained that the conversation between him and Gyökeres has already moved beyond simple instructions.
He revealed in a video shared by the club’s official X account that there has been some light-hearted back and forth about goals and assists, suggesting a healthy competitiveness mixed with mutual respect.
As Martinelli put it:
Yeah, I mean, I told him that the other day I didn’t mean to steal his goal, but I think I gave him two goals already against Leeds and today. So, yeah, I mean, he needs to give me one more.
Watch the video below:
The comment drew smiles, but it also hinted at how naturally responsibilities are being shared in Arsenal’s forward line. It was a tongue-in-cheek remark, but one rooted in performances that continue to deliver an end product. For Arsenal, this understanding could prove decisive in the months ahead.
With Gyökeres in form, Martinelli supplying creativity, and confidence high after big moments this season, including their Carabao Cup heroics, the Gunners look increasingly comfortable sharing goals across the squad. That balance, mixed with camaraderie, may be exactly what sustains their momentum in the title race.
