Gabriel Martinelli, Arsenal’s winger, suffered an injury during a training session with the Brazilian national team ahead of the Copa America tournament.
The incident occurred when Martinelli collided with Porto defender Eder Militao, causing him to fall to the ground.
The severity of the injury is currently unknown, but it has raised concerns for both Brazil and Arsenal.
Martinelli has been an essential player for Brazil, scoring two goals in his last three starts.
He also played a crucial role in Arsenal’s success last season, making 44 appearances and contributing eight goals and five assists.
His potential absence would be a significant blow to both teams, especially considering his previous foot injury that kept him out of March friendlies and a Premier League match against Brentford.
The incident has sparked concerns about Martinelli’s fitness, and Arsenal teammate Gabriel Magalhães expressed frustration over the lack of immediate medical attention.
Martinelli eventually received treatment but was seen hobbling away and falling to the ground on the sidelines.
Militao later offered a brief apology for his involvement in the collision.
Martinelli’s importance to both Brazil and Arsenal cannot be overstated.
Valued at £60 million by Transfermarkt, he is a vital player for both his club and country.
His injury would not only impact Brazil’s chances in the Copa America but also Arsenal’s upcoming season.
In light of his potential absence, Martinelli has commented on Arsenal’s transfer strategy, emphasizing the quality of the current squad and deferring decision-making to the club’s technical director, Edu Gaspar, and manager, Mikel Arteta.
He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform, stating, “The people who play at Arsenal are very good. The club has to have the best players to have a chance of being champions. We have an outstanding team, with many players of incredible quality.”
As the extent of Martinelli’s injury becomes clear, both Brazil and Arsenal fans will be monitoring his progress closely.
His potential absence would be a significant loss for both teams, but his confidence in Arsenal’s squad and transfer strategy suggests that the club is well-equipped to handle his potential absence.
