‘You will see’: Arteta hints he may unleash £6m Arsenal superstar in new role
Mikel Arteta hinted at a possible new position for Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli against Southampton This afternoon.
Arsenal is preparing for their match against Southampton at the Emirates Stadium.
Alexandre Lacazette has been absent from training this week, and it is unclear who the Gunners would choose to spearhead the attack if the veteran French striker is unavailable.
Eddie Nketiah is the only other known number nine who is still in North London.
Could Arteta instead use Martinelli in the middle?
Don’t rule it out just yet.
When asked if the 20-year-old Brazilian — a £6 million signing in 2019 – may start centrally, the Spanish manager was enigmatic, according to Arsenal’s official website.
He said: “We have many options, so you will see tomorrow.”
It’s not a confirmation, but it’s also not a denial, which is pretty thrilling.
Because of Lacazette’s absence this week, HITC Sport speculated on Friday that Arsenal fans could finally get to witness Martinelli as a number nine.
And it’s certainly feasible – even more so after Arteta’s remarks.
Normally a wide player under Arteta, a striking role against the Saints makes sense for Martinelli, and only time will tell if that is Arteta’s goal.
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‘You will see’: Arteta hints he may unleash £6m Arsenal superstar in new role
