Gabriel Martinelli has certainly been the surprise of Arsenal throughout the last half-decade. A player brought in from Brazil that next to no one knew anything about has become not only a starter for the club, but is now regularly called up to his national side.
Signed under the previous regime for a pittance, Arsenal and Unai Emery immediately gave Martinelli chances in the first team. With Edu as technical director, it was only a matter of time until another unknown star from Brazil would follow.
However, it took three years before the new boy Marquinhos rocked up at the club. He was signed from Sao Paulo in a move which has created a relationship between Arsenal and the side to produce such talents as David Neres, Antony and Casemiro.
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The club have provided a huge hint which effectively confirms the plan for Marquinhos. As shown in the latest set of training images, the 19-year-old has been given the No. 27, which is a senior shirt designation.
Martinelli was initially handed the No. 35 shirt and has since now taken the No. 11. Marquinhos is training with the first team and is expected to travel on both pre-season trips to Germany and the United States.
His versatility to play on both flanks is sure to give him more opportunities in the team. He currently has competition from the aforementioned Martinelli in addition to Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith-Rowe, Reiss Nelson and Nicolas Pepe.
The latter pair’s futures remain uncertain, especially Pepe. Nelson has just the year left on his deal but is a player appreciated but Mikel Arteta. Seemingly unlike Pepe, who was left out of the starting line-up more than he has made it last season.
Arsenal will play in four competitions next season. After finishing fifth, Arsenal qualified for the Europa League and alongside the FA Cup and League Cup, these will provide opportunities for periphery players, as Marquinhos is expected to be, to play.
However, Arsenal continue to be linked with wide players. There was a prolonged pursuit of Raphinha although the figures Chelsea have offered are not likely to be matched by Arsenal and the Brazilian’s preference remains Barcelona.
Whether the Gunners move onto an alternative remains to be seen but should Pepe move on it would make sense. Marquinhos therefore could have an even greater battle on his hands this season.
The first opportunity to see Marquinhos play will be against Nuremberg on Friday, followed by a trip to the States. He could feature against any of Everton, Orlando City and Chelsea before returning for an Emirates Cup clash with Sevilla.
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