Arsenal defender Pablo Mari has admitted he’s wowed by the quality of teammate Gabriel Martinelli, claiming that he’s got “something different” in his game.
Mari, 27, is a Spanish centre-back that moved to the Emirates Stadium on a permanent basis in the summer and he’s given a glowing verdict on his teammate.
Martinelli has had a frustrating campaign so far with just four senior appearances due to injuries, but he’s shown that he’s got immense potential.
The 19-year-old Gunners teenager made a big impact with the senior team in the previous season before his knee injury back in June 2020.
He’s a skilful attacker that can play anywhere in the forward line, with his pace, trickery and directness making him a serious threat.
The Brazilian has scored 10 goals in 30 first-team games in an Arsenal shirt.
“Speaking of him as a footballer, I think he has something different, I believe he’s a different talent from what we are seeing,” Mari told ESPN Brazil.
“I had the opportunity to get to know him in depth during these months of injury that we work together almost every day, I know how good he is, he’s a wonderful person.

TBR’s View:
Despite being halted by injuries so far in his brief career, Martinelli looks a star in the making.
It’s unclear on if his best position is as a left-winger or a central striker, but he’s a great option for manager Mikel Arteta to have.
There is a real crop of young talent for Arsenal fans to get excited about, as they have the likes of Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson.
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