Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario believes that Gabriel Martinelli will 'stand out' at the 2026 World Cup. Prior to his nation's exit in the quarter-finals, the forward was primarily used as a substitute in Qatar.
The Selecao were favourites to win the tournament but rather disappointingly, they were eliminated by an ageing Croatia side on penalties in the last eight. Nevertheless, as there's a significant amount of talent coming through the Brazilian ranks, they will be confident about the next competition in four years time.
The 2026 event is due to be held across the USA, Canada and Mexico, countries that will play host to 48 teams as oppose to the normal 32. Whilst there's likely to be plenty of stars in action, O Fenomeno thinks that Martinelli will have one of the biggest impacts.
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Speaking to Apostagolos, he said: "He is definitely a great asset, is developing wonderfully at Arsenal and showed his potential in the group stage in Qatar. He will certainly stand out at the 2026 World Cup."
"We are very excited about him," he added. "What impresses me the most is that he plays with a lot of passion and self-confidence."
Before then, though, his focus will be on Arsenal. Similarly to William Saliba and Bukayo Saka, the forward's long-term future at the club is still uncertain. football.london understands there is an option to extend Saliba and Saka's respective deals by at least another year, as well as Martinelli's by a further two.
However, reports this week have been positive. SPORT have now suggested that could soon arrive with Martinelli reportedly 'close' to signing a new contract until 2027, with the 21-year-old feeling comfortable in Arteta's project.
football.london, meanwhile, currently understands that Arsenal are confident about securing a new deal for Martinelli as the Brazilian wants to stay at the Emirates stadium.
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