Pundits Clash Over Arsenal's Treatment of Gabriel Martinelli
The row highlights disputes over access to inside information that could influence public views as Arsenal negotiates a probable transfer.
Overview
- Gabriel Martinelli has been left out of Arsenal matchday squads for the Community Shield and the Premier League opener while talks with Saudi club Al Hilal are reported to be progressing.
- Reports say Martinelli rejected a move to Galatasaray earlier this summer and Arsenal are seeking a fee in the region of £60m to €70m for a transfer to Al Hilal.
- Ian Wright said he felt 'uncomfortable' with how Martinelli was being treated and claimed to have direct knowledge of the situation, prompting his public criticism of the club.
- Simon Jordan strongly rebutted Wright's comments by calling them 'uninformed' and 'biased' and arguing there is no evidence Arsenal have acted improperly, while Martin Keown offered a partial defence of Wright's intent.
- Martinelli is under contract until June 2027 with a one-year option, which gives Arsenal leverage to sell before his final contract year, and clubs commonly sideline players late in negotiations to avoid injury and protect transfer value.