Rio Ferdinand has voiced confusion over the recent struggles of Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, once likened by Mikel Arteta to a Liverpool legend.
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The Brazilian forward was a standout performer during the 2022/23 season, amassing 15 goals and five assists as Arsenal narrowly missed out on the Premier League title.
However, this season has been starkly different for the 23-year-old, who has managed just three goals in 13 appearances and now faces stiff competition from Leandro Trossard for his starting spot on the left wing.
Martinelli’s decline was epitomized by his costly offside error during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Fulham on Sunday, a mistake that nullified Bukayo Saka’s would-be winning goal.
Discussing Martinelli’s form, Ferdinand shared his thoughts on his YouTube channel, saying:
“When he first broke through, his trajectory seemed sky-high. I even asked Mikel Arteta a couple of years ago how good this kid could be. He told me, ‘Rio, he could be anything he wants, there’s a bit of Luis Suarez in him, with the way he runs and attacks.’ That comparison shocked me back then, but now, it feels like he’s slowed down significantly.”
Sunday’s draw left Arsenal with missed opportunities, unable to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool. Arteta shared his frustration post-match:
“We’re disappointed. We dominated the game, yet couldn’t take the three points. These small margins make a big difference, and we need to keep improving. It’s tough emotionally when a late goal is disallowed after such effort.”
Arteta remains hopeful, but with competition heating up and Martinelli’s form in question, the Gunners will need to address these issues to maintain their title ambitions.
