Mikel Arteta Provides Insight into Gabriel Martinelli’s Injury Status

In a dramatic turn of events at Goodison Park over the weekend, Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli experienced a whirlwind of emotions.

What initially seemed like a moment of elation quickly turned to despair. Martinelli, the winger, believed he had given Arsenal the lead with a dazzling goal, executing a precision finish beyond Jordan Pickford into the far corner after a sprint down the left flank.

However, the jubilation was short-lived, as VAR intervened, disallowing the goal due to an offside call involving Eddie Nketiah in the build-up. This instant reversal of fortune left Martinelli visibly frustrated. To compound his woes, he was forced to leave the field shortly after realizing he had sustained a muscular injury during the disallowed goal attempt.

Speaking about the injury in the post-match analysis, Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, shed light on the situation. Arteta noted that Martinelli, not typically prone to muscular issues, felt the discomfort following his goal attempt.

“He felt it after the action for the run on the goal,” Arteta said. “Normally he’s not one of the players to have muscular issues, but he had to come off, so let’s see.”

The uncertainty surrounding Martinelli’s condition raises concerns for Arsenal fans, especially with a pivotal week of football ahead. The Gunners are set to make their return to the Champions League against PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday, followed by the highly anticipated north London derby against Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Arsenal’s hopes now hinge on Martinelli’s fitness as they navigate these crucial fixtures.