Ian Wright has criticised Arsenal’s handling of Gabriel Martinelli’s uncertain future after claiming the Brazilian has been left unclear about what is happening at the club.
Martinelli was omitted from Mikel Arteta’s squad for Friday night’s 3-0 Premier League victory over Coventry City, having also missed the Community Shield win against Manchester City.
Arsenal are open to selling the 25-year-old this summer, but a suitable exit has yet to materialise.
Speaking after the Coventry victory, Wright said the situation was making him feel “uncomfortable” and questioned the communication Martinelli has received over his future.
PA reports that Wright claimed Martinelli has not been properly informed about what is happening, while Arsenal have been approached for comment.
"It really makes me feel uncomfortable" 😳
Ian Wright doesn't agree with Arsenal's treatment of Gabriel Martinelli after the Brazilian was left out of the match day squad for the Gunners' opening day victory against Coventry ❌ pic.twitter.com/Cbk76etnxN
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 21, 2026
Ian Wright questions Arsenal treatment of Gabriel Martinelli
Wright’s intervention arrives after Martinelli was left out of two consecutive competitive matchday squads.
The former Arsenal striker believes a player who has spent seven seasons in north London and contributed in major matches deserves greater clarity if the club has decided his future lies elsewhere.
That is particularly relevant because Martinelli himself appears reluctant to accept just any available exit.
ReadArsenal reported on Thursday that Al-Hilal had added Martinelli to their winger shortlist, although the Brazilian would prefer to remain in European football.
He had already indicated that a move to Galatasaray was not an attractive option despite the Turkish club submitting a bid.
Competition at Arsenal has also changed considerably.
Christos Tzolis has started the season superbly and was again one of Arsenal’s outstanding performers against Coventry, while Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze provide further wide options.
Wright nevertheless argued that Martinelli could reasonably believe he still has something to offer Arteta’s squad.
Arteta acknowledged earlier this week that Arsenal face difficult conversations with players whose roles are changing, stressing the importance of honesty and respect when making football decisions.
Wright’s comments now place additional scrutiny on how that process is being handled with Martinelli.
Arsenal may ultimately decide selling the winger is the correct sporting decision.
The question raised by one of the club’s greatest forwards is whether Martinelli has been given enough clarity while Arsenal attempt to make it happen.
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