Martinelli confirms Manchester United's failed path before Arsenal move
In an interview with ESPN Brazil, Arsenal Star Gabriel Martinelli has revealed his botched trial in manchester united before its move to Emirates Stadium.
Martinelli is currently one of the best wingers in the first division. He has been a consistent starter for the London giants and has made several key goal contributions in recent years.
Arsenal signed him £6 million of Ituano in the summer of 2019 and the decision turned out to be blind. The 22-year-old has 40 goals and 22 assists in 158 appearances for the Gunners.
Speaking to ESPN Brazil, Martinelli revealed that he was hoping for a contract with United after being given the opportunity to go on trial with the Premier League heavyweights.
However, it wasn't meant to be that way. The Brazilian said that things happen for a reason and he is happy that everything went well for him to move to the Gunners from extra-league football.
He said: “I was hoping… when you have a trial you think it's going to work. And at a club the size of Manchester United, it makes you anxious.”
“But things happen for a reason. I wasn't where he was supposed to be, I was at Arsenal. And everything worked out well for me to go to Arsenal.”
Right decision
Martinelli was an unknown figure during his time at Brazilian fourth division club Ituano. Arsenal made the decision to sign him before their European rivals and it has paid off.
The young winger showed his potential from the beginning with his shot inside the area. A long-term knee injury in 2020 halted his progress, but he managed to rediscover his form and confidence.
The Brazilian displaced Emile Smith Rowe in the starting lineup during the second half of the 2021/22 season and has not looked back since with several standout performances for Arsenal.
This has been demonstrated by his £73 million valuation by Transfermarkt. Martinelli is currently one of the most valuable players on the squad. It looks like he will stay for many years and his contract will not expire until June 2027.
Martinelli hasn't been in his best form with just 7 goals and 3 assists this season, but the winger remains a vital figure in the manager's plans. Mikel Arteta for the filming of the season.
