Gabriel Martinelli says he expects Bukayo Saka to stay at Arsenal and revealed he’s joked with the England international and William Saliba about them following his lead by signing new contracts at Emirates Stadium.
Martinelli committed his long-term future to the Gunners in early February and it’s since been reported that Saka, who has been locked in negotiations for months, is close to doing the same.
The vibes coming from Saliba’s camp suggest he’s also happy with life in London having made a big impact since his first team debut in August.
“I’ll be happy because he’s a very, very good player, one of the best young players in the world,” said the Brazil international when asked about Saka staying at the club.
“He’s at his house, Arsenal is his home and for sure, he’s happy and we’ll be happy as well if he stays and signs a new deal.
“We always have some jokes, me, him and [William] Saliba but it’s up to him. He’ll stay for sure, he loves the club.”
Facing the press in Portugal ahead of Arsenal’s Europa League clash with Sporting Lisbon, Martinelli was also asked about his status in the squad.
With Leandro Trossard and Eddie Nketiah struggling with injuries and Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Jesus working their way back to full fitness, attention turns to the Brazilian to bring the firepower to Arteta’s attack.
“Of course, if I’m the number 9 or on the wings, I always try to do my best and help the team and score and assist. I’m happy to play as the number 9 or on the wing, it’s up to Mikel. Wherever he wants to play me, I’ll play.
“I don’t mind [the extra responsibility],” he added. “We play for Arsenal and everyone has this responsibility.”
Of course he’ll stay, he loves Arsenal as much as us fans. He plays for a club that’s really good at football, and which let’s him express himself fully. Why would he go anywhere else for now
There are not many places that looks like a good place to be right now. I could only think of only few clubs that can afford him. Out of those clubs only Real and Bayern seem to be relatively stable but still going through transitions and they need strengthening in other positiions. Any players that are interested in joining City will wait and see what happens with the Financial Irregularities charges. Logically it wouldn’t make sense for Saka to move to any of those 3 places. Any other clubs are in super transitions, or cant afford him or just basically… Read more »
Money?
Yes, all very true. Doesn’t look so good at many other clubs. But mostly, Saka looks like if he had a dream he was sold, or left the club, he would wake up in a stir, like what was that nightmare. One of us! One of us! One of us!
I fucking loves these guys. The lot of ’em.
“I’m happy to play as the number 9 or on the wing, it’s up to Mikel. Wherever he wants to play me, I’ll play.”
Tears in my eyes, reading this and thinking about the prima donnas we used to carry!
Que Ricarlson……..” I am amazing and I should be God”😂😂😂
Oh, how different it feels being an Arsenal fan these days. I remember the protracted uncertainty around players like Fabregas, Nasri, and especially Van Persie, those many years ago. Every window was fraught with trepidation: there was always a rumour making the rounds about these fellows leaving for greener shores. Not so now; we are at peace concerning the future of our best players. The rumour of Gabriel to Juventus was decisively dismissed by the player himself. Even Saliba’s body language is all about staying at the Emirates. Compare that to the coy smiles and the you-never-know-what-tomorrow-holds answers at press… Read more »
Someone tell Gabi that Arsenal is also his home
Man how did we end up with a team brimming with exciting youngsters 😍
Academy and good recruiting.
“We play for Arsenal and everyone has this responsibility.”
Arteta-effect there. He’s got the players bought in but also has them understanding what it means to be a Gooner and the expectations. Even more impressive is these are very young and intelligent men who so clearly articulate their thoughts but also duties and responsibilities. I feel like the intellect of the team has gone up in recent years, just as much as the skill level.
Saka will definitely sign a long term contract but something tells me Saliba will not sign and probably go to PSG. I feel he might be still pi$$ed about his early Arsenal career and the loan saga.
Lol. Some of you, though!