11 Gabriel Martinelli

Born on June 18, 2001, in Guarulhos, São Paulo, Gabriel Teodoro Martinelli Silva began his football journey in 2010 with Corinthians’ futsal team. Transitioning to football, he moved to Ituano in 2015 and later trialed at Manchester United and Barcelona. On November 4, 2017, he signed his first professional contract with Ituano, making his debut at 16 and becoming the club’s youngest player of the century.

Martinelli’s breakthrough came in 2019’s Campeonato Paulista, where he scored six goals, leading Ituano to the quarterfinals.

Arsenal Career

2019–2020: Breakthrough Season and FA Cup Triumph

Arsenal signed Martinelli on July 2, 2019, for a reported £6 million. Expected to start with the U21s, he impressed in preseason, earning first-team minutes. He debuted in the Premier League on August 11, 2019, against Newcastle United and scored twice in his first competitive start against Nottingham Forest in the EFL Cup.

His early performances drew praise, including from Jürgen Klopp, who called him a “talent of the century.” He scored 10 goals across all competitions and won Arsenal’s Goal of the Season for a solo effort against Chelsea. Despite a knee injury, he extended his contract in July 2020.

2020–2022: Return from Injury and Positional Evolution

Returning from injury in December 2020, Martinelli adapted to a left-wing role under Mikel Arteta. He scored his first goal of the 2021–22 season against Newcastle United, which ranked third in Arsenal’s Goal of the Season poll. In February 2022, he received his first career red card against Wolves in a controversial decision.

Switching to the No. 11 shirt before the 2022–23 season, he became a key figure in Arsenal’s attack.

2022–Present: Key Player in Arsenal’s Title Challenge

Martinelli played a vital role in Arsenal’s strong 2022–23 campaign. He scored 15 goals and provided six assists, finishing as the club’s joint-top scorer with Martin Ødegaard. His performances helped Arsenal challenge for the Premier League title, and he became the highest-scoring Brazilian in a single Premier League season.

He continued his form into 2023–24, assisting and scoring key goals, including a winner against Manchester City, Arsenal’s first league victory over them since 2015.

International Career

Olympic Glory and Senior Brazil Call-up

Martinelli represented Brazil at the 2020 Olympics, scoring in the semifinal penalty shootout and winning gold. He made his senior debut in March 2022 and was selected for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, playing in multiple matches.

In November 2023, he scored his first senior international goal in a World Cup qualifier against Colombia.

Playing Style

Martinelli is known for his explosive speed, agility, and dribbling ability. As a wide forward, he can beat defenders and create chances, making him a vital asset for Arsenal and Brazil.

Personal Life

Martinelli holds dual Brazilian-Italian citizenship and is in a relationship with Isabella Rousso.