As Arsenal have announced the signing of Brazilian striker Gabriel Martinelli, here´s a little thread from someone who has seen him a lot this year

What Gabriel Martinelli did in the Campeonato Paulista this year was remarkable. Best new comer and selected in the team of the tournament. He played against some of the biggest clubs in the country, such as Corinthians/Santos/Palmeiras/Sao Paolo

I’m pretty sure that Arsenal offered Martinelli first team assurances to sign him, as he has received loads of offers, could be a very good surprise this season. Don’t believe that he will be loaned out.

Gabriel Martinelli has scored 202 goals in 248 games for Corinthians youth side. At Ituano he’s scored 64 in 92. Had a trial at Man United and impressed them but wanted to stay in Brazil at the time. Also trained at La Masia during a week

Martinelli had better stats than Antony and Rodrygo (who has just signed for Real Madrid) in the Paulistão this year, for instance. And played for a much worse side.

Martinelli has a very good mentality for his age and the people around him seem good as well. Not the youngster that goes out, already practicising his english and taking lessons, wants to suceed and choose carefully the best place to go between multiple offers.

Martinelli plays without fear, not afraid of anyone, very mature head for his age, often takes the good decision despite being so young, Arsenal dot com say that he join up with his new team mates for pre-season training, which is good news.

Gabriel Martinelli in the Campeonato Paulista this year:

11 games
- 6 goals
- 3 assists
- 169 passes (78% accuracy)
- 32 completed dribbles
- 11 tackles
- 10 interceptions
- 12 air disputes won.

yes, what a find.