Martinelli was once on the verge of joining Barcelona but has now become one of Mikel Arteta’s key players. Martinelli had a dream week—from scoring against Real Madrid to secure Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final spot after 16 years, to netting against Ipswich to delay Liverpool’s title celebrations. Earlier in the season, he was at risk of being sidelined due to injuries and inconsistency, but his relentless efforts have made him indispensable for Arteta.

Two seasons ago, Martinelli was one of the Premier League’s standout players with 15 goals and 6 assists, but his form dipped the following season. Arsenal increased competition in the attack by signing Trossard and Sterling. Martinelli adapted well with Trossard, but Sterling has no future at Arsenal, and his contract with Chelsea will not be renewed.

Martinelli is now one of Arsenal’s brightest stars. His goal against Ipswich made him Arsenal’s fourth-youngest player to reach 50 goals (at 23 years and 306 days), after Saka, Fabregas, and Walcott. He and Saka aim to leave a lasting legacy in London. The semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain will be a major test for this young team.

Martinelli and Barça

Arsenal signed the 18-year-old Martinelli from Ituano, a fourth-division Brazilian club, in 2019 for €5 million (later increased to €8 million for 80% ownership).

At the time, Barcelona was closely monitoring him, and their scout, Marcos Casseb, even contacted him through André Cury. Martinelli spent 15 days on trial at Barcelona and was ready to sign with the club’s B team. The deal seemed done, but Barça suddenly hesitated. Even two Barcelona scouts watched him in the São Paulo Cup, but Arsenal, with the help of Raúl Sanllehí (then sporting director), eventually secured his signature. Now, Martinelli’s market value stands at €55 million, and talks of extending his contract (until 2027) are underway.