Gabriel Magalhães has hailed Gabriel Martinelli as Arsenal’s “hardest-working” player — despite the forward finding himself on the fringes of Mikel Arteta’s starting XI in recent weeks.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the Brazilian defender praised his compatriot’s relentless attitude in training, describing him as “a machine” and suggesting his commitment behind the scenes has gone underappreciated.
“This Guy Is a Machine”
When asked which player gives the most in training, Gabriel didn’t hesitate.
“I’m going to say Martinelli — this guy is a machine.” — Gabriel Magalhães, via Sky Sports
Martinelli’s effort levels have never been in question, but recent weeks have seen him dropped from Arsenal’s starting XI as Arteta continues to experiment with his new-look attack.
The summer signing of Eberechi Eze has changed the balance of Arsenal’s frontline. With Martin Ødegaard sidelined, Arteta has opted for an attacking trio of Bukayo Saka, Eze, and Leandro Trossard, leaving Martinelli to make cameo appearances off the bench.
Martinelli Missing Despite Work Rate
Fans have expressed frustration over Leandro Trossard’s inconsistent displays, especially given Martinelli’s reputation for energy, pressing, and direct attacking play. Yet for now, Arteta appears content to stick with the Belgian — even as Martinelli’s absence grows more noticeable.
To make matters worse, the 23-year-old has now picked up an injury that rules him out of the upcoming clash with Burnley.
Arteta Provides Injury Update
Arteta confirmed that Martinelli will miss the weekend’s trip to Turf Moor, while William Saliba faces a late fitness test.
“[Gabriel] Martinelli is still out. [William] Saliba we will have to wait and see because we have another training session this afternoon. The rest are getting closer but not available yet.” — Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager
Asked about a timeline for Martinelli’s recovery, Arteta added:
“We aren’t sure yet, but I think this game will come too soon.” — Mikel Arteta
Martinelli by the Numbers
Despite limited minutes, Martinelli has been quietly effective this season:
| Stat (2025/26) | Gabriel Martinelli |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 12 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Minutes Played | 479 |
source: Sofascore
data — 1 November 2025
Our View: Martinelli Still Has a Big Role to Play
In our view, Gabriel Magalhães’ praise reflects how highly Martinelli is regarded inside the Arsenal camp — even if his current lack of minutes is frustrating. His pressing, work rate, and fearless running remain integral to Arteta’s philosophy. Once fully fit, it seems inevitable that Martinelli will reclaim his spot in the starting XI.
Key Insights
- Gabriel Magalhães calls Gabriel Martinelli Arsenal’s “hardest-working” player.
- Mikel Arteta currently prefers Eze, Trossard, and Saka as his front three.
- Martinelli sidelined with injury; Saliba could return vs Burnley.
- The Brazilian has 4 goals and 1 assist in 479 minutes this season.
- Arteta says Martinelli’s knock “will take a few more days” to recover.
What’s Next
Arsenal visit Burnley today at 3:00 PM looking to extend their unbeaten league run. Fans will hope Martinelli’s return isn’t far away — especially with his fellow Brazilian teammate publicly backing him as one of the squad’s most dedicated professionals.
👉 Arsenal fans — should Martinelli be starting ahead of Trossard when fit again?
By John William — FootballPlace.co.uk ·
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