Martinelli might be out of Arsenal squad for non transfer-related reasons

Gabriel Martinelli was not included in the Arsenal squad for their first league game of the season against Coventry City, and he also missed their Community Shield fixture. His absence has fuelled speculation that he could leave Arsenal during this transfer window.

The Brazilian played his part as the Gunners won the league last season, but the club reportedly wants him to leave and plans to replace him with a world-class star. Martinelli has already turned down a move to Turkiye to join Galatasaray, although he has opened the door to a transfer to the Saudi Pro League.

Al Hilal have been in talks with Martinelli over the last few days, and Arsenal expect a deal to happen. Fans believe that could explain why he has been left out of the last two matchday squads, although that may not be the complete reason for his absence.

Martinelli’s Absence May Have Another Explanation

Clubs often leave players out of their matchday squads when their departure is imminent, particularly when negotiations over a transfer are ongoing. Martinelli’s situation could therefore be linked to the possibility of him leaving Arsenal before the transfer window closes.

However, there is another explanation for his absence, and it could mean that his omission from the squad does not necessarily confirm that he is on his way out. Arsenal still have the option of including him in future matchday squads if his situation changes.

The Premier League places a limit on the number of players teams can name for each matchday, meaning managers have to make difficult decisions when selecting their groups. Arsenal were able to name 20 other players without Martinelli for their latest fixture.

Gabriel Martinelli (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Martinelli Could Still Return

Standard Sport reports that the Premier League only allows teams to name a 20-player squad for each matchday. The Gunners managed to name 20 other players in the group without Martinelli, meaning his absence does not necessarily indicate that his Arsenal career is over.

If Martinelli does not leave the club during this transfer window, he could therefore return to the squad in the future. His current absence may be connected to transfer speculation, but it is not definitive evidence that a move is imminent.

Arsenal will continue to assess the situation as the window approaches its conclusion. With Al Hilal interested and Martinelli having already rejected a move to Galatasaray, his future remains uncertain, but his omission from the last two squads does not automatically mean he will leave the Gunners.

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