Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has revealed that Gabriel Martinelli will be the main replacement for Bukayo Saka’s injury-hit right-back, as he has seen some of his skills and the results have been impressive.
Saka suffered a hamstring injury in the 5-1 rout of Crystal Palace last time out and is not expected to return until February 2025, raising concerns over the team’s performances as the 23-year-old has been directly involved in 15 league goals this season (five goals, 10 assists).
However, Arteta is ready to shrug off the idea and move on with Martinelli, with a number of other options available as a right-sided forward.
“Yes, he is the first choice to play, especially because Martinelli has played in that position before,” he said at the press conference ahead of the Ipswich game (Dec 27).
“He played it at the end of last season against Everton (2-1 win), he played well, and other days he played on the right wing, scoring goals and making assists.”
“It’s a good choice in my hands.”
“We still have options if we need to use someone who can play with both feet if we want something different, so we’re in it.”
There are still 3-4 names that can play as right wingers, making the 42-year-old coach more confident that the team will not stumble from now on.
“Gabriel Jesus can play there, Ethan Vaneri can play there, Leandro Trossard can play there, depending on the position that rotates.”
“Kai Havertz can play if we ask him Promotion ufabet to do something different, so let’s see. I’ll try to persuade them and see how they react.”
Martinelli has been impressive once again this season, scoring five goals and providing two assists in 23 games.