"The way that Arsenal fans talk" - Podcaster boldly names 22-year-old Gunners star as PL's most underwhelming player this season
UK Podcaster Suga Shaun has named Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli as the Premier League's most underwhelming player of the 2023-24 campaign.
Martinelli was a standout performer for the Gunners during their impressive title challenging previous season. The Brazilian winger made 46 appearances across competitions, registering 15 goals and six assists.
However, Martinelli has somewhat failed to replicate that form during the ongoing season. He sits on a tally of eight goals and five assists in 40 games across competitions.
Martinelli has become a fan favorite at Arsenal since arriving from Brazilian outfit Ituano five years ago. He's been a mainstay in Mikel Arteta's side and his place has never really been under threat.
However, Suga Shaun feels the Emirates faithful have exaggerated claims such as the attacker being the team's best outlet. The YouTuber explained why he's underperformed this season on 888sport's podcast:
"The expectation, this is what I mean. I thought Martinelli, the way Arsenal fans talk about him being the outlet for Arsenal, 'he's the difference-maker, on the counter-attacks, the speed, the match-ups that he's able to take on his fullbacks'. That's what I thought would flourish a lot more this season."
Arteta's attack boasts strength in depth and Leandro Trossard has stepped up during Martinelli's inconsistent form. The Belgian attacker has bagged 15 goals and two assists in 42 games across competitions. The former Brighton & Hove Albion man is the toughest competition the Brazilian has faced for a starting berth in years.
Arsenal could be looking to replace Gabriel Martinelli with Rafael Leao: Reports
Arsenal appear to be in the market for a new attacker this summer to ease the goalscoring burden on Bukayo Saka. The English right-winger has shone this season but his attacking partners Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus haven't been as prolific in front of goal.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes.net, the Gunners are showing an interest in AC Milan forward Rafael Leao. The Portuguese ace is viewed as one of Europe's most exciting attacking talents having flourished for several years at the San Siro.
Leao, 24, has been in red-hot form this season with 13 goals and as many assists in 42 games across competitions. His versatility allows him to play on the left wing and up top in attack.
However, Leao won't come cheaply as Milan value him at around €150 million and Manchester United are also keeping tabs. This fee could put the north Londoners off as they may want to strengthen several areas of the team.
Martinelli may need to show improvement with Arteta seemingly setting his sights on a new winger. Leao fits the bill of a young talent who can explode at the Emirates with his pace and eye for goal.