While it was reported he wasn’t interested in a move to Turkey, the latest rumours are that Martinelli would be open to a transfer to Saudi Arabia.Some Gooners will accept this if a replacement is lined up, but there will also be a section of our fanbase who will fear the Brazilian could come back and haunt us.With the peak years of his career still ahead of him, the player himself might benefit from a change of environment under a system which allows individuals to express themselves.Has Martinelli had his flair coached out of him?Mikel Arteta has long been accused of preferring to work with talent he can micro-manage. While the 25-year-old can never be accused of tactically not following instructions, you could argue he’s had his flair coached out of him.One of the best in his position at tracking back and helping defensively, the attacker hasn’t developed as much as some assumed. It’s an issue that Theo Walcott had when he grew from a teen into a young man in the English capital, with some accusing him of being devoid of football intelligence.In the dark days of Unai Emery’s last few months, the then teenager was one of Arsenal’s few bright lights – direct at all times, always demanding the ball and not afraid to take on his man.When our ex-captain returned to the Emirates, one of the first things he did was work in training with the youngster on timing his bursts of pace to save his energy.The more the Spaniard fixed our defence, the less creative licence our attack seemed to have. Instead of beating his marker and getting to the byline, the Brazil international became predictable, always playing the ball back.I maintain it’s not due to a lack of footballing IQ, but the way he’s been educated.Our manager never seemed comfortable working with Aubameyang or Ozil, personalities who think for themselves. The 44-year-old would rather teach youth who he can mould into his own image.The assumption was that once the Gunners got over the line in the title race, our tactics would be less conservative, but that could now be without Martinelli.(Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)Could Arsenal regret letting Martinelli leave?There are other clubs who would give him more freedom to attack, spend less time defending and, most importantly, be trusted to solve problems himself.After seven years in North London, anyone leaving with a Premier League and FA Cup winners’ medal can call their time in England a success. Yet when you look at his age, you can’t help but feel the working relationship has been left unfulfilled.He has all the attributes to make the champions regret this.He won’t be the first high-profile name under the current regime told he’s unwanted, but this isn’t someone too old, injury-prone or with an attitude issue. This isn’t even about reducing the wage bill.This is simply a footballing choice made on sporting merit, and it could be a mistake.Dan SmithHas Mikel Arteta got the best out of Gabriel Martinelli, or could Arsenal live to regret allowing the Brazilian to leave? Let us know your thoughts in the comments._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsHas Mikel Arteta failed to get the best out of Gabriel Martinelli?24 August 2026, 22:30Arsenal plans late swoop for Ligue 1 attacker24 August 2026, 21:00Manchester United has not given up on signing Arsenal star24 August 2026, 20:00The post Has Mikel Arteta failed to get the best out of Gabriel Martinelli? appeared first on Just Arsenal News.