Gary Neville predicted Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli would give Liverpool full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold "problems" on Wednesday... and the Manchester United icon wasn't wrong.
The Englishman, 23, had a difficult evening at the Emirates thanks to the Brazilian, 20, despite the Reds winning 2-0. The result leaves Liverpool just one point behind leaders Manchester City, while Arsenal remain one point clear of Manchester United in fourth with two games in hand.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the Premier League game, Neville predicted the battle between Alexander-Arnold and Martinelli was "going to be absolutely incredible" - insisting both youngsters "are at the top of their game".
The pundit went to praise Alexander-Arnold's attacking ability but added: "He's got Martinelli against him who I think will give him problems the other way."
The Gunners star went on to produce an eye-catching performance, leaving Neville purring in the commentary box. "This is absolutely wonderful from Martinelli," he said. Neville later added: "He's got Alexander-Arnold on toast when he runs at him."
Former Tottenham defender Jonathan Woodgate, who was on commentary for BBC Radio 5 Live, added: "Gabriel Martinelli is really giving Trent Alexander-Arnold a torrid time. Arsenal are on the front foot here."
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Arsenal were in contention for all three points at the Emirates until two quick-fire goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino in the second half gave Liverpool a priceless win. Not even the magical feet of Martinelli could salvage their hopes.
The youngster has enjoyed a decent start to his professional career, scoring 18 goals in 73 appearances for Arsenal and showing plenty of glimpses of his potential. He was part of the Brazil squad that won last summer's Olympic tournament in Japan.
Speaking in 2019, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp described Martinelli as a "talent of the century" and an "incredible striker". And in January, the German said: "Martinelli... I think everybody should remember that name because he is an outstanding player."
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is also a big fan of the talent. "He trains incredibly hard, he is always willing to do more and he is not scared or afraid to take risks - and that is what I like about him," said the Spaniard in December.
Klopp's estimation of Martinelli will only have grown after Wednesday evening, yet he wasn't the only impressed individual inside the Emirates. Journalists and broadcasters admired his performance, as Martin Tyler said: "He's got some stardust, this young man."
Two famous faces who enjoyed the battle between Martinelli and Alexander-Arnold were Gary Lineker and his friend Piers Morgan. "The best passer of a football in the English game is a right-back," tweeted Lineker. "What's happened to our sport?"
To which Morgan - and Arsenal fan - replied: "Do mean the guy being skinned every five minutes by Martinelli?" Morgan also tweeted: "Cracking game. Cracking atmosphere. Cracking performance. Arsenal, led by Martinelli, are genuinely competing with one of the world's best teams. Great to see."
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