Mikel Merino has praised Gabriel Martinelli after the Brazilian’s hat-trick inspired Arsenal to a convincing FA Cup victory over Portsmouth. The performance underlined Martinelli’s continued importance to the team and reinforced his reputation as a player capable of delivering on big occasions. His display was a reminder of his quality and commitment, qualities that have defined his Arsenal career to date.
Martinelli’s enduring importance at Arsenal
Martinelli remains one of the few players still at the club from the period before Mikel Arteta’s arrival, and his development since then has been notable. Over time, he has grown into one of Arsenal’s most influential figures, earning trust through consistent performances and a strong work ethic. His showing against Portsmouth demonstrated that he remains a reliable option when the pressure is on.
Arsenal had the opportunity to move him on during the summer but chose not to do so, a decision that continues to look justified. As the club pushes to win trophies this season, Martinelli has frequently stood out through individual contributions across multiple matches. His ability to influence games in decisive moments makes him a valuable asset as Arsenal competes on several fronts. The FA Cup remains a key target, and performances like this highlight how crucial Martinelli could be in helping the Gunners achieve their ambitions.
Praise from teammates after FA Cup display
Martinelli’s impact has not gone unnoticed within the squad, and his attitude off the pitch has earned him admiration as well. Merino was particularly complimentary when discussing his teammate, highlighting both his character and professionalism. As quoted by Hayters, he said, “We are really happy for him.
“He’s a great guy. Everyone that knows him knows he’s a really, really kind kid.
“He’s always smiling. He’s always kind with everyone. Obviously, you can see that today he came here with the best attitude. Knowing he’s a great professional as well, it doesn’t matter the atmosphere around him. He’s always focused on the team, on doing the best thing possible.
“We are very pleased that he’s performing this well.”
The comments reflect the high regard in which Martinelli is held within the dressing room. His combination of talent, humility and focus continues to set a positive example, and his form suggests he will remain central to Arsenal’s hopes of silverware this season.
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Martinelli doesn’t need petty accolades from a squad member like Merino. He’s more senior to him in the team. He has, for more than 5 years shown his importance to the team, from when Saka and he were the only wingers worth talking about at Arsenal; but somehow, he keeps getting relegated into insignificance by some inside the inner circles at Arsenal, yet he keeps delivering. I want to be clear this once. The Rodrygo who’s so loved and touted by some, while failing to command a regular place at Madrid, will not get anywhere close to where Martinelli is in the premiere league. That goes for Ansu Fati, and Williams. Ask Jurgen Klopp if you want.
Where are those fans who say “Well he would say that wouldn’t he?”
Easy to have a go at Gyokeres and Rice, when the former isn’t scoring, but more difficult to go after someone who’s just scored a hat trick and being praised in the same way by Merino.
So are both Rice and Merino liars or speaking the truth?
Ken1945,
I see where you’re going with you’re post. But I still maintain that no sane player would come out and be derogatory about a team mate he has to play with every weekend.
But I do see you’re point.👍
It seems that Merino has now praised Havertz on his return Derek – surely MA will have to stop all this congratulatory self indulgence nonsense between team mates?
It’s bad for morale and thanks for the response 👍
Ken1945,
I think we’re veering away from the original point here. I think Rice was answering a question regarding Gyokeres form in the side.
And Rice was very complimentary, which he would be wouldn’t he.
You’re point regarding Havertz, well I assume Merino was asked how good it was to have Havertz back again, and again he would answer in the positive. There’s nothing congratulatory or self indulgent in that statement in any way.
And I believe the two case’s in point are different.
Yeah have yet to see it
And if I have it doesn’t end well
Merino is clearly one of the leaders in the team- you can tell by how he talks about his teammates. He’s quietly been a very good signing. I expect him to end up as a coach once he hangs his boots.