Gabriel Martinelli has emerged as an impactful figure for Arsenal when introduced from the bench, making decisive contributions in recent matches. For two consecutive games, he has entered as a substitute and scored crucial goals that have helped the Gunners secure important results.
The summer arrivals of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke have pushed the Brazilian attacker down the pecking order at the Emirates. With both players offering different attributes, Martinelli now faces strong competition for a starting position. Madueke is regarded as more direct in his play, while Eze is viewed as skilfully decisive in dictating attacking moments, which explains why they are often preferred ahead of him.
Martinelli’s Changing Role at Arsenal
Last season, Martinelli struggled to consistently deliver his best performances, attracting criticism from supporters and commentators alike. When Arsenal invested heavily in new attacking players during the recent transfer window, he was immediately seen as one of the individuals most at risk of reduced game time.
Despite this, Martinelli has responded by proving his value in a different capacity. As suggested by Standard Sport, he may be even more effective as a substitute rather than as a regular starter. This assessment aligns with Mikel Arteta’s philosophy, which places considerable importance on the concept of “finishers.” These are players who can enter matches from the bench and alter the outcome in favour of the team.
The Value of a Super Sub
The idea of finishers suggests that not every talented footballer must start in order to have influence. Some thrive when facing tired opposition defences, bringing energy and decisiveness in crucial moments. Martinelli’s recent performances suggest that he could excel in such a role, turning him into one of Arsenal’s most reliable options when tactical adjustments are required.
If Martinelli continues to demonstrate his effectiveness as an impact substitute, Arsenal may choose to maintain this strategy, keeping him in reserve until his contribution is most needed. This approach could ultimately enhance the balance of the squad by ensuring that the team benefits from his sharpness at decisive moments, rather than relying on him from the outset.
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That’s fine if purnstrayegy is to tired the opposite out and then he comes on with his pace…not sure that’s an k really strategy but just one plan
I would prefer to see him given a go at CF …with him and Gyokeres hopefully one of our midfielders will do passes for them to run on to rather than just pass it around !
Dominating a game in terms of possession is fine if there is any end result…but just possession means nothing!
Have a look also at the 2nd and 3rd goals of Gomez for Brighton tonight. We rarely see our guys (Zubamendi apart) having a pop like this…it’s one way to beat a low block !
Here’s an idea, start Martinelli WITH Eze to potentially help him be effective again.
Gets my vote!
Merino on the bench please and come on as a sub if we need
Brilliant idea,Bruised Banana
Thanks for the compliment Gunsmoke.
I’m sure they’ll get around to it eventually, more by chance than judgment, but it will be hailed as a genius Arteta plan.
In the best 11, he and Trossard have had more impact off the bench. We have injuries now, Eze is best Central so Martinelli and Trossard may have to start. Will be interesting because both have had less impact when starting. That has to change.
Reggie, one problem imo is that hardly none of the attack is going through the middle and defences are concentrating on shutting down the wings as that’s the only significant threat we have been bringing to the table. Other than Gyokeres looking lonely, the middle of the final third has been looking barren.
We also play like individuals when we attack. There is a tenuous link with Odergaard and Saka but apart from that, we have not link play that works.
Both Martinelli and Trossard are better off the bench especially Trossard who has impacted on games from bench on several occasions whiles Martinelli is proving to that assertion lately.
Concerning Martinelli, I hope Arteta uses him centrally upfront as I believe he will be a better striker than left winger.
Gyokeres.
Martinelli. Odegaard. Saka.
Eze. Rice.
Calafiori. Gabriel. Saliba. Timber.
Raya.