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Henry highlighted winger Martinelli’s decision-making during his analysis. The Frenchman also criticized Arsenal’s playing style, claiming their game to be predictable.
Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka. (X)
France legend Thierry Henry has exposed Gabriel Martinelli’s flaw during Arsenal’s ruthless analysis on television. The Mikel Arteta-coached side has faltered in their Premier League campaign this season. They are not looking as dominant as they did in the previous two campaigns, where they finished second behind Manchester City.
Their recent performances drew criticism from fans and pundits who questioned Arsenal’s style of play and their over-dependence on Bukayo Saka. Club legend Thierry Henry also shared his thoughts on this topic on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football. He specifically highlighted winger Gabriel Martinelli’s decision-making during his analysis. “You’re [Martinelli] not playing your one-vs-one,” he said.
Jamie Carragher was also seemingly unimpressed with Martinelli’s performances this season. Agreeing with Henry’s words, the former Liverpool fullback claimed the Brazilian needs to improve his game.
“Martinelli has to offer more,” he said, as per multiple outlets. He further talked about how Saka and Martinelli were almost at a similar level a few years ago.
Saka has now established himself as one of Europe’s best players, whereas the Brazilian has lagged behind. “Now, Martinelli and Saka, a few years ago were almost at a similar level but Saka has jumped up to be one of the best players in European football in his position but Martinelli unfortunately hasn’t joined them,” he said.
Henry also criticized Arsenal’s playing style, claiming their game to be predictable. He then spoke about the team’s over-reliance on Saka and said, “When you are in trouble at Arsenal the ball goes to Saka. Arsenal do create but it’s the choices they take.”
The Frenchman claimed that Martinelli could provide his team with key passes inside their opponents’ box but the Brazilian usually does the opposite. “Martinelli knows he can give three people tap-ins if he goes inside but he goes outside,” he said.
Martinelli recently returned to Arsenal’s starting XI against Monaco. He was dropped to the bench by Arteta against Fulham. The Brazilian hasn’t scored or assisted in the Premier League since the 1-1 draw against Chelsea before the international break in November. Given his current form, it is quite unlikely that fans will see him make the playing XI for Arsenal’s upcoming EFL Cup quarter-final clash against Crystal Palace. The knockout game will take place on December 19 at the Emirates Stadium.
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