'We have': Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson makes claim about Martinelli after his cameo appearance for Brazil

By Lee Clarke

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson has heaped praise on Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli after Brazil battered South Korea at the World Cup.

Alisson has been given the nod over Manchester city goalkeeper Ederson during this tournament. He’s not disappointed and made three superb saves last night.

As for Martinelli, he’s been forced to play a patient waiting game. He did start the game against Cameroon but has been on the bench three times.

Last night, he played for 18 minutes and did look lively during his time on the pitch as Brazil looked to score more goals.

The fact that Tite has the ability to throw the likes of Martinelli onto the pitch perhaps gives Brazil the edge in Qatar.

Squad depth is the order of the day for the South American team and it’s hard to look past them winning the competition at this stage.

Following last night’s game, Alisson had some praise for Martinelli and he’s seriously impressed with the depth at Tite’s disposal.

Alisson told beIN Sports (05/12/22; 09:20pm): “We have a lot of genius in the team. There is real top-quality in the team and on the bench. The players that are coming from the bench are the difference-makers as well for us.

“When the defensive line is playing against Vinicius, Raphinha and Richarlison, then Martinelli comes in, Antony comes in. 

“They think ‘what can we do?’ We are strong and we know that we have to be strong as well at the back.”

Alisson has praise for Martinelli

The 21-year-old is deemed a star of the future for his country. This tournament will give him some great exposure to a major competition but he’s only a backup option now.

Tite has preferred other options at this tournament. Ultimately, however, Martinelli will know that his time will come on the international stage.

The youngster has been class for Arsenal during 2022/23. He’s scored five goals and managed to hold down a regular place in Mikel Arteta’s team.

He will hope to feature even more as the tournament progresses. Brazil are just three games away from glory now and Martinelli could still have a big say in Qatar.