Gabriel Martinelli has perhaps become the most frustrating player in Mikel Arteta's squad. The Brazilian attacker looked to have all the tools to become a talisman at Arsenal, but six years after arriving in North London, he has yet to fulfil his potential.
The 24-year-old's inconsistency continues to be problematic for Arteta, who needs a frontline that is capable of coming to the fore at all times. Bukayo Saka certainly is and has been a protagonist over the years, while Viktor Gyokeres deserves patience and rival fans' criticism thus far is puzzling.
Martinelli has been handed enough time to show he deserves to be an undisputed starter, and he hasn't proven it. A stellar piece of business during the summer transfer window means his place is now truly under threat.
Why it's over for Martinelli as a starter
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Noni Madueke is silencing his critics | Michael Regan/GettyImages
Arsenal now have, not one, but two, alternative options for the left-wing after signing Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze. The English duo are two exciting acquistions who breath new life into Arteta's attack and offer differing profiles.
Madueke is a direct winger who uses his pace to cause havoc and this was on display during England's recent World Cup qualifiers. He was undoubtedly [the standout performer](https://paininthearsenal.com/arsenal-marmite-summer-signing-grabs-first-international-goal-in-fine-style) in wins over Andorra (2-0) and Serbia (5-0), getting on the scoresheet in the latter.
The 23-year-old's £48.5m arrival from Chelsea was hugely panned by fans, but that was surely more born out of frustration over a lack of a proper left-winger being signed. He may predominantly operate as a right winger, but once Saka is fit again, he'll be eyeing a regular starting role over on the left.
That may also be in Eze's sights following the versatile attacking midfielder's move from Crystal Palace. There was no backlash from fans over the club's decision to spend £60m on the 27-year-old.
Eze is a proven Premier League talent who was outrageously good for Palace last season, scoring in their 1-0 FA Cup final win over Manchester City. He is another whom Martinelli may fear is coming for his place in Arteta's side.
Noni Madueke must start against Forest
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Arteta's men are back in action on Saturday (September 13) when they face Nottingham Forest in [Ange Postecoglou's first game in charge](https://paininthearsenal.com/arsenal-fans-wont-love-edu-gaspar-hired-face-mikel-arteta). The former Tottenham boss has replaced Nuno Espirito Santo, who was sacked earlier this week.
Postecoglou is likely to start with Ola Aina at right-back, a Nigerian full-back who is among the most reliable both defensively and going forward in the league. He would likely nullify the threat posed by Martinelli but could be given a difficult afternoon against Madueke.
The unpredictability that Madueke brings is a huge benefit and could help Gyokeres thrive up top. He has also proven to be capable in front of goal and will be eager to build on his impressive exploits for England.
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