Martinelli Reveals Former Arsenal Player Inspired Him To A Brilliant Solo Goal

Gabriel Martinelli rubbed salt into the wounds of Aston Villa before netting Arsenal’s fourth goal of the afternoon. Desperate for an equaliser, Emi Martinez joined his teammates in the Gunners’ box for a corner late into injury time.

But, the home side’s risk didn’t quite go to plan and Unai Emery quickly regretted giving the Argentine permission to venture out of his own half when William Saliba headed the ball upfield. The Arsenal defender’s clearance launched a two-versus-two counter-attack, with Fabio Vieira and Martinelli galloping forward.

The Portugal international, unselfishly, threaded a delicately weighted through ball into the path of the Gunners winger with only an open net in front of him. Before doubling Arsenal’s advantage, Martinelli prematurely celebrated by throwing his arms in the air — just as Ross Barkley did for Everton in 2017 and Tomas Rosicky for Borussia Dortmund in 2006.

Speaking to the press after the game, Arteta showered the Brazil international with praise for his impressive performance off the bench. The Spaniard said: “It’s not dropping him! He’s played every single minute.

“You don’t see players at his age doing that. We have three 21-year-olds leading the front line. It’s unheard of. Leo (Trossard) has been doing really well and we needed impact.