Arsenal supporters have taken to social media to express concern over the future of Gabriel Martinelli after the winger was left out of the matchday squad for tonight’s Premier League opener against Coventry City. The two clubs are scheduled to kick off their 2026-27 campaign at the Emirates Stadium this Friday, August 21.
The Gunners’ starting lineup features David Raya in goal, with a defensive line consisting of Ben White, Cristhian Mosquera, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Riccardo Calafiori. The midfield trio includes Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and captain Martin Odegaard, while Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis, and Kai Havertz lead the attack. Notably, Ethan Nwaneri has been named on the bench in place of Martinelli. Reports suggest Arsenal are open to offloading the 25-year-old, who has recently been linked with potential moves to Juventus and Inter Milan.
Although Martinelli remains under contract until 2027, he is reportedly only interested in joining a high-profile project. He previously turned down an opportunity to sign with Galatasaray, even though Arsenal had reportedly received a €45 million offer for his services. Fans have voiced their frustration regarding his exclusion, with many interpreting the decision as a clear sign that his time at the club is coming to an end.
Ahead of the match, BBC Sport columnist Chris Sutton has predicted a comfortable 3-0 victory for Arsenal, noting that the team is operating at an elite level following the arrivals of Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis. The Gunners enter the fixture as strong favorites to defend their Premier League title, buoyed by their dominant 3-0 victory over Enzo Maresca’s Manchester City in the FA Community Shield final on August 16. The report also notes that this is not the way to treat your player” – Fans believe one Arsenal star is set for exit as he’s left out of squad for Coventry PL clash. The report also notes that despite Arsenal reportedly receiving a €45 million offer, he recently rejected the chance to join Galatasaray. The report also notes that while Martinelli is contracted with Mikel Arteta and Co.
