Gabriel Martinelli has claimed that Carlo Ancelotti wants him to play in a central role at the FIFA World Cup, which he has never done at Arsenal. The Brazilian star claimed that he is happy to play in any role, as long as he can help the team.
Speaking to CazeTV after the win over Japan at the FIFA World Cup, Martinelli said that he does not get to play in a central role at Arsenal and it was Ancelotti's idea to push him in that position. He added that the positions on the pitch do not matter for him as he is happy to work with any role for the team and said:
"At Arsenal I don’t play that position, but I can. The manager has been talking to me about how I can play in that role, playing centrally. I’m happy to help the team regardless of the position. On the pitch, I’ll try to help Brazil in the best way possible."
Talking about scoring the winning goal, Martinelli said he was out of words to describe the feeling. He recalled hitting the post in the previous match against Scotland and said:
"I don’t even have words to describe the joy in my heart seeing the Brazilian people happy with the qualification. My family, wife, parents, my friends… I can’t even explain what I’m feeling right now. I think it will only sink in after a while. The other day [against Scotland] I hit the post. I knew I would have another opportunity and thank God I managed to score the winning goal. Very happy with the performance of everyone who gave their all."
Brazil will face the winner of Ivory Coast vs Norway next at the FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
Carlo Ancelotti explains decision to bring Brazil star on at FIFA World Cup
Carlo Ancelotti was quizzed on his decision to play Gabriel Martinelli ahead of Neymar in the central role, and the Italian had a quick answer. He said that the main idea was to have fresh legs added to the FIFA World Cup match and said:
"It was mainly to bring fresh blood onto the field. Martinelli has a lot of intensity, he’s a very important option because when he comes on he’s always at a high level. His position allowed Vini to play a little wider."
Neymar has played just 15 minutes at the FIFA World Cup this summer.