Ian Wright criticises Arteta and Arsenal over Gabriel Martinelli treatment

Ian Wright has questioned Arsenal’s treatment of Gabriel Martinelli after the Brazilian was left out of the squad for the 3-0 Premier League win over Coventry City.

Arsenal legend Ian Wright has criticised the club’s handling of Gabriel Martinelli after the Brazilian winger was again left out of Mikel Arteta’s squad for the opening-day victory over Coventry City.

Martinelli was absent as Arsenal began their Premier League title defence with a convincing 3-0 win at the Emirates, with Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard finding the net.

His omission has intensified speculation that Arsenal are attempting to find a new club for the 25-year-old before the transfer window closes, with Martinelli reportedly having rejected a £38 million approach from Galatasaray.

The winger, who has one year remaining on his current contract, was also excluded from Arsenal’s Community Shield victory over Manchester City.

Wright believes the situation has been poorly managed and feels Martinelli deserves greater respect for his contribution since joining the club.

The former Arsenal striker argued that if the club wants the player to leave, it should handle the process transparently while considering Martinelli’s own preferences.

Martinelli has made 278 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 62 goals and providing 34 assists, and has won three major trophies during his time in north London.

His reduced role last season and the arrival of new attacking options have increased uncertainty over his position, while Arsenal continue to reshape their squad.

The situation leaves Martinelli facing an uncertain final period of the transfer window, with his next move potentially becoming one of the club’s major pieces of transfer business.

Wright’s comments add further pressure on Arsenal to clarify the winger’s future and ensure the process is handled appropriately.