Ian Wright Slams Arsenal Over Gabriel Martinelli Treatment
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has criticised the club’s handling of Gabriel Martinelli after the Brazilian winger was once again left out of Mikel Arteta’s squad for the Premier League opener.
The Gunners began their title defence in style, defeating newly promoted Coventry City 3–0 at the Emirates following their Community Shield victory over Manchester City.
However, Martinelli’s continued exclusion has become a major talking point. The 25-year-old was also absent from Arsenal’s squad for the Community Shield and appears to be facing an uncertain future at the club.
Martinelli earns around £180,000 per week and has just one year remaining on his contract. Arsenal have reportedly received a £38 million offer from Galatasaray, although the winger is understood to have no desire to move to Turkey.
His situation became more complicated despite Leandro Trossard’s departure to Besiktas for £15 million, which initially appeared to give Martinelli a greater chance of playing regularly. Arsenal have since brought in Christian Tzolis, who impressed against Manchester City with two assists.
Wright believes Arsenal should be treating Martinelli with greater respect, regardless of whether the club ultimately decides to sell him.
Speaking after the Coventry victory, Wright said the situation made him uncomfortable, highlighting Martinelli’s commitment and important contributions during his Arsenal career.
The former England striker particularly criticised the apparent lack of communication with the player, saying Martinelli deserved better treatment after everything he had given the club.
Piers Morgan also backed Wright’s comments, insisting that Martinelli has been a loyal and important player for Arsenal over the years.
Since joining Arsenal in 2019, Martinelli has made 278 appearances, scoring 62 goals and providing 36 assists. The Gunners are reportedly valuing him at around £50 million, with Napoli and Roma among the clubs showing interest.
