Players who have given years of service often receive support from teammates when frozen out of the squad. Decisions aimed at facilitating a sale can create discomfort if the process feels abrupt. Record fees generated from long-serving attackers help fund further recruitment.
Wingers left out of matchday squads and ceremonial moments face a difficult final period at a club. Clear communication about squad status accelerates external interest. Club legends who speak publicly add weight to the wider conversation around respect and treatment.
READ MORE: Sky Sports confirm Arsenal closing in on £60million transfer
Gabriel Martinelli is poised to leave Arsenal for Al-Hilal after being frozen out of the squad by Mikel Arteta. The Brazil international has been left out of the matchday groups for both the Community Shield and the Premier League opener against Coventry City.
Reports claim Martinelli is unhappy at the manner of his treatment, including not receiving a medal for the Community Shield triumph. There is understood to be sympathy for the 25-year-old among some teammates after seven years and 278 appearances at the club.
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Ian Wright expressed his discomfort publicly. “With respect to Martinelli and the way he’s being treated at the moment, it really makes me uncomfortable. He always gives 100 per cent… he’s come up with some big moments for Arsenal in big games, and the way he’s being treated at the end here – I know they might want him out… but there’s ways of doing that should suit him as well. For him to be nowhere near it, just makes me feel a bit sad for him. I think he’s done enough in this squad to be treated with a bit more respect.”
Martinelli previously rejected Galatasaray and is now seriously considering a move to Al-Hilal. Arsenal are seeking a fee in the region of £50-60million, which would represent a club-record sale. The funds could support further attacking reinforcements, with Julian Alvarez remaining a target.
Supporters will note the mixed emotions surrounding the situation. A departure would generate significant revenue while ending Martinelli’s time in north London. Further updates are expected as talks with Al-Hilal continue ahead of the deadline.