Martinelli impresses but has a huge hole to fill as Saka limps out

Through misfortune, Mikel Arteta may have finally unlocked the untapped potential of Gabriel Martinelli.

The hamstring injury suffered by Bukayo Saka, who is so, so crucial to Arsenal, cannot be papered over. But, after Martinelli’s Saturday night showing, Arteta’s right-wing replacement for the coming weeks is clear-cut.

Once Saka needed to come off in the 24th minute, Arteta played substitute Leandro Trossard on the left flank and shifted Martinelli out to the right.

This change seemed to bring back a rawness to the Brazilian’s game which has been rarely seen since the 2022-23 season, in which he struck 15 Premier League goals.

Instead of overthinking the situation on the ball or passing backwards, Martinelli was running at his man down the right with venom, targeting the byline.

It was the confidence of a man who seemed to have the task at hand suddenly simplified for him by being able to run straight ahead on his stronger right foot, rather than a need to cut inside.

How Arsenal will need him firing, too, with the timeline for Saka’s absence unclear. It is the England man’s third hamstring injury of the season and is real concern for the Gunners, whose best play often comes via his feet.

Raheem Sterling, who has yet to make an impact, is also now injured.

That leaves Martinelli with a big hole to fill — but also a sustained run in the team on the right wing, a position he doesn’t get a chance in because of Saka’s brilliance.

It could well be the change he needs to reignite his campaign — and his position at Arsenal. The north London club have recently been linked with a number of wingers amid suggestions an upgrade on Martinelli is needed if Arteta’s men are to stay in title contention.

Now is the opportune time he can prove his worth.