Gabriel Martinelli looked as though he was heading for World Cup disappointment as supposed leaks claimed he would not be part of Tite's squad for the tournament. However, when the Brazil team was announced the Arsenal starlet was indeed part of the list.
Arsenal’s starting left-winger had pipped Liverpool's Roberto Firmino to a place in the team that will now travel to Qatar with teammate Gabriel Jesus also selected. Martinelli has openly admitted he had dreamt of this and that his father had even predicted the call-up years prior.
For Brazilians, the World Cup is the pinnacle with such a historical tie to the tournament. It is therefore unsurprising to hear the elation in Martinelli’s explanation of his feelings when he found out.
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"I'm very happy," he said. "It's one of the most important moments in my life and in my family's life as well - I'm buzzing, I'm so excited to go there and be part of this team.
"I cried a lot; I couldn't even talk, and I was with my family and on the phone, but I needed to turn the phone off and call them later because I couldn't even talk."
There had been many debates about whether the World Cup would be a help or a hindrance to Arsenal’s season objectives. Sitting on top of the table and with all the momentum behind them, having this international tournament break up the domestic season looks like a nightmare.
The risk of injuries is obvious but perhaps not so much for Martinelli. With Vinicius Junior expected to start on the left of Tite's XI, it is unlikely Martinelli will play all too regularly in the tournament, but he believes the experience will be a big benefit to him
"I think it will be good for my career and to play in the World Cup will be amazing," he said. "I'm so excited to go there and I'm prepared for the challenge, and I hope we will win it.
"I think my Arsenal form has been so important because if I'm not playing good at Arsenal I cannot be called up and that's why I'm there because I'm doing well with the club."
Martinelli also revealed what manager Mikel Arteta said to him after hearing the news. It might have been short and sweet, but the advice was certainly sound.
"When I talked to Mikel, he was so happy for me," the Brazilian said. "Said congratulations and said go there and smash it."
Brazil are one of the favourites for the tournament and could go all the way to the end. Arsenal themselves are planning on travelling to the Middle East for a warm-weather training camp.
Should Brazil be knocked out early, those participating will likely fly straight to join up with their respective teams relatively nearby. With the final on December 18th and Arsenal not in Carabao Cup fourth-round action, the players should be fine to play on the Boxing Day return of Premier League football.
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