Some Arsenal fans and pundits still do not understand the club’s decision to cash in on Gabriel Martinelli this summer, with the Brazilian completing a move to Al Hilal.It was clear that the Gunners wanted Martinelli to leave, as they omitted him from their squads even when a transfer had not yet been agreed between Arsenal and the Saudi Pro League club. The decision raised questions, particularly after the Gunners enjoyed one of their best seasons in recent times when they won the league last term.Arsenal decided to sell MartinelliMost clubs would look to retain the core of a winning squad, which is what many expected from Arsenal. However, before the World Cup ended, the Gunners accepted an offer for Leandro Trossard, replacing the Belgian with Christos Tzolis, and told Martinelli that he was next.Gabriel Jesus was another attacker the club asked to leave, and both players have now departed. With Arsenal choosing to move on two experienced attackers, there is a possibility that financial considerations played a significant role in those decisions.The Gunners had invested heavily in improving their squad, and that spending meant they needed to consider their finances when making decisions about player sales. Selling established players can provide an immediate source of income while also reducing the squad.(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)Gunners needed to balance booksFootball Insider says that after Arsenal splashed the cash in the summer of 2025 to improve their squad, the Gunners needed to balance their books this summer. That would explain why the club was prepared to part ways with players who had previously been important members of the team.Arsenal therefore needed to bring in some cash, and one of the quickest ways to raise funds was to sell some of their top players. The departures of Martinelli, Trossard and Jesus have helped the Gunners generate funds while making changes to their attacking options.Although some supporters and pundits remain unconvinced by the decision to sell Martinelli, Arsenal appear to have viewed the move as part of a wider financial strategy. The Brazilian has now joined Al Hilal, bringing an end to his time with the Gunners.The decision may continue to generate debate, particularly given Martinelli’s previous importance to Arsenal. However, the club has made its position clear through its actions, and the financial need to balance the books appears to have influenced its decision to sell._____________________________________________________________________________________________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 NewsReport says Arsenal had to make an important sale this summer4 September 2026, 16:00Arsenal drops Saliba fitness hint with Champions League squad announcement4 September 2026, 15:00Arsenal will consider signing Premier League star in January4 September 2026, 14:00The post Report says Arsenal had to make an important sale this summer appeared first on Just Arsenal News.