Arsenal fans will be disappointed to hear that they’re at risk of losing ace Gabriel Martinelli for up to six games in the New Year as a result of his fine form.
According to Mirror Football, Gabriel Martinelli’s recent call up to Brazil’s Under-23s squad for the upcoming international break could lead to the ace missing up to six games in the New Year.
The 18-year-old has scored five goals in six games across all competitions for the Gunners so far this season. The ace’s contribution in the Europa League has been crucial.
The youngster’s impressive start to life in north London has earned him a call up to Brazil’s Under-23s squad next month.
The potential issue with this is that the nation are likely to include some of their top talents in their squad for next summer’s Olympic Games.
Should he impress next month, he’s likely to be called-up to feature in Brazil’s CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic tournament that runs from January 18 to February 9.
Should this happen, Martinelli would miss four Premier League games against Chelsea, Burnley, Sheffield United and Newcastle.
Depending on the Gunners’ progress, he’d also miss the Fourth Round of the FA Cup and possible the Carabao Cup Semi-Finals.
Arsenal’s current woes could lead to the ace being given a chance to start in the Premier League. With the starlet becoming increasingly important to the squad, they can’t afford to lose him at a key stage in the season.
Results during the New Year period can make or break a team’s season, it’s vital that the Gunners get points on the board after the packed Christmas period.
With the transfer window open for this period, they’ll be even more eyes on the Gunners.
Brazil’s federation could see an Olympic call-up as the way to win over Martinelli – who is also eligible to play for the Italian national team.
Would it be fair for Arsenal to prevent the ace from playing in the Pre-Olympic tournament? This could impact the ace’s chance of making a run for a gold medal in Tokyo next summer.