In what seems like a significant move, Marquinhos, the talented winger who once drew comparisons to Arsenal’s rising stars Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, appears poised to make a return to his homeland of Brazil.
Initially, Arsenal showed reluctance to include a purchase clause in Marquinhos’ contract with Fluminense. However, after persistent efforts from the player’s representatives, the club eventually relented.
This marks a pivotal moment in Marquinhos’ career, as he prepares to bid farewell to Arsenal, where he arrived two and a half years ago from Sao Paulo in a £3 million deal.
According to reports, Marquinhos has come to terms with Fluminense, the reigning Copa Libertadores champions. Initially hesitant to incorporate an option-to-buy clause in the young winger’s contract, Fluminense has now shifted its stance, swayed by Marquinhos’ potential and the persuasive efforts of his representatives.
While Marquinhos showed promise early on in his career at Arsenal, notably making a memorable debut with a goal and assist against FC Zurich in the Europa League, he struggled to maintain consistency. The emergence of Saka and Martinelli further complicated his prospects of securing a regular spot in the Arsenal lineup.
Marquinhos’ loan spells at Norwich City and Nantes also failed to yield significant breakthroughs, with his recent stint in France cut short after a lackluster performance, managing only seven appearances in Ligue 1 without making notable contributions in terms of goals or assists.