Arsenal are leaving Gabriel Martinelli unchallenged in the starting XI, that could come back to haunt them.
Transfers without balance
Arsenal spent the cash this summer to strengthen their squad after last season’s title heartbreak against Liverpool. They even doubled down on defence despite already having one of the toughest backlines in the EPL.
The problem is, while the back four looks overstocked, the left flank still feels light. Martinelli continues to get the nod, yet his output hasn’t lived up to the hype. He has had twelve goal contributions last season. It doesn’t match the levels Gunners need if they want to outscore the likes of Man City and Liverpool.
The idea of pushing Eze into a wide role sounds like a patch job rather than a proper plan. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, but it’s not his natural spot and could limit what he brings to the side. Arsenal’s decision to ignore that issue up front while stacking defenders might soon look like a big misstep.
Big test for Martinelli at Arsenal
A player with a salary of £200k-a-week is expected to deliver numbers that match his paycheck. Martinelli has shown glimpses of quality in the past. However, he has yet to show that he can be that effective, reliable other winger who changes results for Arsenal.
In addition, Leandro Trossard added more goals and assists than him last season. He is 30 and probably doesn’t have any long-term future at Arsenal. The north London side needed fresh blood to push Martinelli or even replace him. But instead, they’re gambling on him to finally hit top form.
If Arsenal fails in the title race again, the lack of a proper left-winger will be an obvious target. If building a top side means correcting weak points, it cannot mean hoping underperformers suddenly turn into strong performers. Martinelli has one more chance to prove he belongs, but patience in football runs out quickly.
Author’s Opinion:
Martinelli is a talent, but Arsenal can’t rely on potential forever. The decision to ignore his position in the transfer window may be the one that stops them from lifting the PL trophy.
