Arsenal enjoyed an impressive September, winning four of their five matches in all competitions. They have controlled the majority of these games, but have had to rely on big-game players to make the difference in key matches. One player, Gabriel Martinelli, has been a vital presence in the five games in September. These standout performances from the Brazilian have seen him crowned the Gunners player of the month for September.
The Brazilian collected 54% of the votes, which saw him edge out Martin Zubimendi, Gabriel, and Leandro Trossard for the September award.
With Arsenal drawing 0-0 in their Champions League opener against Club Athletic, Martinelli was introduced from the substitute bench, alongside Leandro Trossard. Just 37 seconds after coming on, Martinelli scored the first goal, before assisting Trossard for the second.
This immediate impact showed what a key squad player the Brazilian is and what a “very important player” he remains to Arteta. It was a difficult game for the Gunners, who were able to call on a player of Martinelli’s ilk.
A few days after his immediate impact in the Champions League, Martinelli further underlined his value to Mikel Arteta.
Gabriel Martinelli entered the game late on, with the Gunners losing 1-0 to Manchester City, despite playing well for large parts of the match. In the 93rd minute, Martinelli converted an inch-perfect pass to earn his team a dramatic point.
He featured in every game during September, showing his importance to the squad remains very high.
Arsenal will be eager to challenge on all fronts this season, and having a player of Martinelli’s class is key to that. He possesses exceptional pace, which enables him to leave opposition defenders floundering. He is not afraid to track back and support his full-back. He’s also more than capable of chipping in with his fair share of goals.
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