Arsenal - Gabriel Martinelli
Image credit: Getty Images
Gabriel Martinelli believes he is now a more complete player than when he first broke into the Brazil national team, as new head coach Carlo Ancelotti rewards him with a run of starts in World Cup qualifying.
The 24-year-old Arsenal winger, who made his senior Seleção debut in 2022, has struggled for consistency at international level in recent years. But with Ancelotti now at the helm, Martinelli has started consecutive matches for Brazil for the first time since November 2023, including a lively 71-minute outing in the 3-0 win over Chile.
Speaking ahead of Brazil’s qualifying campaign, Martinelli reflected on his progression since his early call-ups.
“Now I’ve had more time in Europe, and that matters,” hesaid. “I’m young, but I’ve already played several matches for Arsenal. I feel I’m better than when I was first called up in 2020 and when I was at the 2022 World Cup.
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“It’s the Brazilian national team, there will certainly be many players competing. But it’s healthy competition, everyone gets along very well. I’m happy to be here and have the opportunity to play.”
Gabriel Martinelli
Gabriel Martinelli played 71 minutes for Brazil against Chile (Image credit: Getty Images)
Ancelotti’s faith marks a notable change from recent coaches. Under Dorival Junior, Martinelli’s appearances were sporadic, often overshadowed by the likes of Neymar and Vinicius Junior. The Italian, however, has placed greater emphasis on youth and energy, with six players under 23 named in his first squad.
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Martinelli’s resurgence comes at a crucial time for Brazil as they rebuild toward the 2026 World Cup. Alongside Arsenal teammate Gabriel Magalhães, who also featured in the Chile victory, Martinelli has helped inject dynamism into the team’s attack and pressing game.
At club level, the winger remains central to Mikel Arteta’s plans at Arsenal, though his form has fluctuated this season in the midst of a fierce Premier League title race. Pundits have highlighted lapses in decision-making, but his encouraging showings for Brazil could provide the confidence needed to rediscover top form in North London.
For Ancelotti, the decision to back Martinelli represents part of a wider strategy to steady Brazil and build a squad blending experience with emerging talent. If the Arsenal man maintains his trajectory, he could play a significant role in Brazil’s road to North America in 2026.
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