Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli earned comparisons to Brazil icon Neymar as he went extraordinarily close to scoring his first international goal with a spectacular effort. The Gunners starlet was handed a cameo for the five-time world champions on Wednesday morning as he was introduced as a second-half substitute for Philippe Coutinho against Bolivia.
With Brazil already 3-0 up following goals from Lucas Paqueta, Everton man Richarlison and ex-Gunners target Bruno Guimaraes, Martinelli was obviously keen to also get his name on the scoresheet having only made his debut for the national team earlier in the break. He went as close as he possibly could with a stunning effort.
Taking the ball down following a long pass from Barcelona’s Dani Alves, the winger easily breezed past his marker before then producing a breathtaking spin to get past another defender. Faced up with the goalkeeper, Martinelli then attempted an audacious chip but saw the ball drop agonisingly wide of the net.
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Whilst his wait for his first goal for his country continues, the passage of play certainly got both Brazil and Arsenal supporters very excited. Here are the best of their responses from Twitter.
@CraqueHD: Martinelli’s unlocked his inner Neymar
@amonly_Ben: That day Martinelli will polish his finishing, it’s going to be over for everyone, nobody is going to stop him.
@dartsfan1002: Martinelli has no ceiling. He can be anything he wants. Kids a generational talent imo
@JonnyNeale1: Martinelli really is something else.
@AFCFrediNho: I’m loving the monest Gabriel Martinelli is becoming
Martinelli will certainly be aiming to continue his great showings for both Brazil and Arsenal having seen reports that the Gunners are aiming to add to their wide options. Previous reports have suggested that the north Londoners are currently leading the race for PSV Eindhoven wideman Cody Gakpo.
The Dutchman would prevent plenty of competition for Martinelli having netted 16 goals and notching 15 assists in all competitions this term. Meanwhile, has scored five and notched four assists so far in 2021/22.
