Mikel Arteta has lauded Gabriel Martinelli after another excellent performance in the Gunners' 3-1 win against Brentford on Sunday afternoon.
The Brazilian forward did not get on the scoresheet for Arsenal, but he was a constant threat with the ball at his feet and his driving runs into central areas caused concern for the Bees' defence. The Brazilian has now cemented his place in his side's starting XI this season, scoring three goals in the seven matches he has played so far.
Last season's trip to Brentford was a very different experience for Arsenal and their supporters, with Martinelli, Arteta and the rest of the team enduring a tricky evening under the lights in West London. They lost 2-0 that night, with the first game of the season representing a low point for the club.
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Martinelli and the team have grown immensely since then, and the Brazilian has made his debut for the Brazil national team after becoming a regular in the side last season. This has seen the star singled out for praise from his manager, with Arteta praising his impact as well as his improvement following Sunday's win.
The Gunners boss spoke to the press, with football.london in attendance and spoke of his delight at the progress made by Martinelli and what it represents for his side, saying: "In a year, if you look at the game that he played here a year ago and today, it’s just incredible how fast they grow," said Arteta.
"They mature, they recognise situations, execution level, the understanding and even physically he looks a different player. I thought he was really good again today."
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