Do Not Sell My Personal Information
Brazil head coach Tite has explained why Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli has been included in his squad for the World Cup.
THE LOWDOWN: RED-HOT FORM
Gabriel Martinelli has taken his game to another level this season with a string of important and match-defining performances.
He was excellent in the win over Liverpool and scored the opening goal in the rout of Nottingham Forest. The 21-year-old has been able to contribute five goals and two assists in the Premier League since the season began.
His rise at Arsenal saw him receive his first national team call-up in March and his chances of going to the World Cup in Qatar initially looked slim. However, to the surprise of many, and certainly his, Martinelli was included in Tite’s 26-man squad.
THE LATEST: GAFFER’S EXPLANATION
Brazil head coach Tite has explained why Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli has been included in his final 26-man World Cup Squad.
The 21-year-old made his international debut in March and will be Brazil’s youngest representative at the tournament. He was called up alongside Arsenal teammate Gabriel Jesus.
Tire, when he was asked about why Martinelli was called, offered a detailed explanation: “We like Martinelli aggressiveness. He’s one of the top players at Arsenal, the first placed in the Premier League. He’s good on 1v1, very rapid in transitions, he’s been keeping a good level.”
Brazil will kick off their World Cup campaign against Serbia on Thursday, November 24 before taking on Switzerland and Cameroon in the other group games.
THE VERDICT: WELL DESERVED
Although Martinelli’s form has been superb all season, his inclusion in the final squad came as a shock considering he only made his debut just this year.
However, he should be proud of his rise and his career so far. Having made the squad now, he will be hoping for some minutes in Qatar.
