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Cape Town - Arsenal striker Gabriel Martinelli says he is happy to bide his time at the club after speaking to boss Unai Emery about his first-team prospects.
The 18-year-old decided to leave Ituano earlier this summer, with Arsenal confirming his move on July 2. Arsenal reportedly beat over 25 clubs to his signature as he penned a long-term contract at the London Stadium.
Technical director Edu used his contacts in his native Brazil to seal the deal, and now Arsenal are hoping he enjoys a bright future.
Martinelli made a big impression during pre-season, scoring on his non-competitive debut in a 3-0 win over Colorado Rapids.
His form in the Carabao Cup and Europa League has only strengthened the belief he can become a big player in the future, with the youngster scoring a brace against Nottingham Forest and Standard Liege.
The Brazilian now has four goals in his last two starts, and he has already been compared to former Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
Coach Unai Emery handed him his Premier League debut as a late substitute against Newcastle United, but he has yet to start a game in the league. Martinelli says he is not worried about the delay, claiming Emery has told him his chance will come.
He told ESPN Brazil: “I have to thank God for this opportunity, the gaffer and the team gave me a big welcome, and I’m trying to get opportunities and do the best I can with them.
“I have to be patient since I’m young and the gaffer talked to me saying I should be patient and wait for the chances, cause they will come. I’m very happy, and I thank god a lot for this. I want to make my career here and try to be a legend.”
The Guarulhos-born forward is set to be included in the Arsenal squad for the trip to Sheffield United after the international break.
- TeamTalk Media
