Rio Ferdinand makes Gabriel Martinelli claim after Arsenal win

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Rio Ferdinand has told his YouTube channel that Gabriel Martinelli is going to be a huge player for Arsenal in the future, while he also suggested that his partnership with Bukayo Saka could develop into something scary.

Martinelli has made a fantastic return to Mikel Arteta’s ranks following several months on the sidelines. He provided an assist in the Carabao Cup tie with Manchester City last week.

Meanwhile, he was excellent against Chelsea as the Gunners won 3-1 on Boxing Day. It was Arsenal’s first win in the league in almost two months.

Saka scored the Gunners’ third goal with a lob over Edouard Mendy. And following their performance, Ferdinand suggested that the two teenagers look destined for incredible careers.

“I watched Martinelli at Bournemouth away last season, him and Saka together. And they have a link up, they have a relationship that’s already there that I think in years to come will be a scary relationship,” he told his YouTube channel. “They work so well together, and Tierney as well on that left-hand side backing it up.

“But Martinelli, I have to say, is going to be a tremendous footballer, top player. He’s come back into this team and he’s showing what all the fuss was about before. He’s going to be a huge, huge player. Massive talent.”

There is surely no question that Saka has been Arsenal’s best player so far this season. The 19-year-old has put a number of his senior teammates to shame with his form.

Martinelli – who earns £90,000-a-week, according to Spotrac – has made a fantastic return. And if he can kick on, there is no reason why he cannot establish himself as one of the first names on the teamsheet in the coming months.

Of course, Mikel Arteta will be keen to ensure that Martinelli and Saka do not get carried away. But if they can realise their potential, Arsenal may indeed have a couple of very special players on their hands.