‘I’m excited’: Some Arsenal fans believe Mikel Arteta is in the process of creating ‘Sanchez 2.0’

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A number of Arsenal fans have given their thoughts on Mikel Arteta’s latest comments about Gunners forward Gabriel Martinelli.

The Brazilian is one of the most highly rated young players at the Emirates Stadium, but following his heroics in his maiden season prior to his injury, he has struggled for game time this term.

Martinelli joined Arsenal from Brazilian side Ituano FC in the summer of 2019 for £6million and has made 34 competitive appearances for the Gunners, but just nine this season.

The 19-year-old was nothing short of superb in his debut season for Arsenal as he netted 10 goals in all competitions, including away at Liverpool as well as Chelsea.

However, he wasn’t even in the matchday squad for Arsenal’s North London derby victory at the weekend, prior to which he was an unused substitute in six consecutive league games.

Ahead of Arsenal’s Europa League last-16 tie second leg with Olympiacos, Arteta sought to make clear that the youngster hasn’t done anything wrong.

“If anything it’s my fault, he has done everything perfect,” the Spaniard told the Gunners media team.

“He trains incredibly well every day, his attitude cannot be any better, he is disappointed he is not playing more obviously and I have spoken to him.

“But he needs to be a little bit patient. He had some minutes, he had some games as well and it’s true the competition for the front positions is very tough but he needs to be patient and he will get his chance.”

Martinelli’s continued lack of game time has rankled with a fair few Arsenal fans, but there are others who are confident in what Arteta has in store for him – a potential switch to No. 9, perhaps?

Here is what some have been saying on social media: