It was another exemplary away day for Gabriel Martinelli in Spain, who took the game away from Athletic Club as **Arsenal**opened their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 win. Goals and assists matter most to the score, but his "attitude" and "commitment" stand out to Mikel Arteta.
‘I think it would mean a lot to him’
**Gabriel Martinelli**made the difference for the Gunners, earning the Player of the Match Award. Straight off the bench, he raced onto a flick from Leandro Trossard and broke the deadlock in a 1 v 1 with Unai Simón. He then burned his way down the left and set up the Belgian for a second goal.
“I'm so happy that today he was important in the two actions.”
Even if his limits as a touchline winger have been widely discussed, the work ethic of the Brazilian has never been in doubt. He is a joy to work with for Arteta, who heaped praise on the 24-year-old.
“Fully deserved it. I adore Gabi; his attitude, his commitment, his positivity, what he's willing to do for the team. Externally, we certainly value all the qualities that he has, and he brings to the team.”
Riccardo Calafiori was keen to celebrate with the wide forward, who has the respect of his peers.
“That's the spirit, that's why I really enjoy every single day working with them and being part of this team. The way they look after each other is genuine, and they really want the best for each other.”
The defensive discipline of the team has turned them into one of the best outfits across the continent. Everyone has to pitch into the effort from back to front, and Martinelli is a man who sets the standard.
“They recognise someone that works every single day in a manner that Gabi does, and you can go through struggles or moments and recognising that and having that capacity to connect with him, I think it would mean a lot to him.”
Noni Madueke started against Leeds United on the left flank, and Eberechi Eze has earned the nod in the last two fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Athletic Club from the wing. The **England**attackers have raised the stakes, but Arteta was sure he would get a reaction from Martinelli.
“He raised the level to Gabi and he was going to do that. He has such a mentality, he's a player that is constantly willing to learn and improve himself, very demanding with himself. That's the moment that hopefully is going to give him the confidence again to go, because he's done a stunning play.”