After a long absence, highly-rated Brazil forward, Gabriel Martinelli could make a return to Mikel Arteta’s team before the end of the year.
Despite being out of play since March 2, 2020, the 19-year-old signed a new long-term contract with the Gunners.
The 19-year-old Brazilian forward put pen to paper on his new deal exactly one year after he joined the club which means he is in the plans of Mikel Arteta who hopes to have him back sooner than later.
Speaking to Arsenal’s media team, Martinelli says he is “feeling very well” as he looks set to recover from a knee injury that has so far sidelined him for seven months.
“I’m feeling very well, I’m regaining confidence and I can feel my knee is better,” he said. “After an injury like this you are kind of scared to force the knee again but the past couple of weeks it has been fine and soon I can start training with the ball.
“I think we have an excellent squad and along with Mikel’s forward-thinking and winning mentality, we can carry on doing well.
“We are playing well and training well, everyone wants to win, and we are all giving everything. I believe this season is very promising. We won trophies last season and I believe we can win this season again and also qualify for the Champions League.”
Martinelli has seen two more of his Brazilian compatriots join the squad over the summer, and he is sure they will be excellent additions.
“I’m very happy, it’s good to have players from your country that speak your language,” he said. “I already knew David Luiz and now it is great to meet Willian and Gabi.
“I only just met them but I can already tell they are great guys, we are always laughing and it is a great environment to be in. They are playing well and giving their best too. I think they have a lot to offer to this club on and off the pitch.”
