Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, valued at £60m, has reportedly sustained an injury during a training session for the Brazilian national team. The incident occurred in a full-blooded clash with Real Madrid defender Eder Militao and has raised concerns among both Arsenal and Brazil supporters.
The footage of the incident was captured by TNT Sports during the Brazilian training camp and quickly went viral online. The team, under coach Dorival Junior, is currently preparing for the upcoming Copa America tournament which kicks off against Costa Rica on June 25.
Martinelli is considered a crucial part of the Brazil squad having scored two goals in his last three starts for his country. He recently scored and started in a friendly match against Mexico earlier this month before making a cameo appearance from the bench against USA last week.
Big concern for Brazil ahead of Copa America
In the video clip that circulated online, Martinelli can be seen attacking a cross before being taken out by Militao. After tumbling over Militao’s body and clattering onto the ground, he struggles to walk away from the scene despite assistance from his teammate.
The apparent lack of immediate medical attention drew frustration from fellow Arsenal teammate Gabriel Magalhães who was also present at training. Martinelli eventually received treatment on-site before hobbling away from the session only to collapse again on sidelines - prompting Militao to return with an apology.
If Martinelli requires time off due to this injury it could prove detrimental not only for Brazil’s Copa America matches but also for Arsenal's Premier League aspirations. The winger had previously missed March friendlies due to foot injury which also kept him sidelined during club action including Premier League victory against Brentford.
During last season alone, Martinelli made 44 appearances across all competitions scoring eight goals along with five assists for Arsenal. His potential absence could be a significant blow to both his club and country.
Martinelli also addressed Arsenal’s summer plans
Amidst the injury concerns, Gabriel Martinelli recently addressed rumours that Arsenal were in the market for another forward. He expressed confidence in his team 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."
Arsenal player, Gabriel Martinelli, said:
“The ones who define the issue of signings are Edu Gaspar and Arteta. It depends on them. We have to work on the field and leave that part of the signings to them.”
As fans await further updates on Martinelli's condition, it is clear that his presence on the field will be greatly missed should he require time off for recovery.
