Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli has identified Manchester City’s Kyle Walker and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate as the two most challenging defenders he encounters in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old Brazilian, who is currently in his sixth season with Arsenal, has encountered numerous of the game’s most accomplished defenders. Martinelli is preparing for more intense duels as the Gunners approach a crowded winter schedule, with a home clash against high-flying Nottingham Forest scheduled in 10 days.
Arsenal have achieved only two victories in their last seven matches across all competitions during a difficult period. Nevertheless, Martinelli remains unwavering in his conviction that Arsenal has the potential to compete for the title, despite the fact that the team is nine points behind league leaders Liverpool after 11 matches.
Martinelli expressed his optimism to Men in Blazers, stating, “We have a team of exceptional players.” We have been successful in the past two seasons and are determined to repeat the feat this year.
We are still at the outset of the season, which is lengthy. It is imperative that we proceed game by game… We are confident in our abilities and are determined to achieve our goals. CLICK HERE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PRESENT.Join the Arsenal WhatsApp Group Chat Now! Martinelli identified Walker and Konate as the most difficult defenders to overcome in one-on-one situations.
“They are both difficult to defeat,” he stated, stating that he relies on instinct to evaluate his opponent’s movements and positioning in real-time. Martinelli has observed substantial improvement in his performance since Mikel Arteta assumed responsibility in December 2019.
Arteta’s influence was acknowledged by the Brazil international, who stated, “He has been extremely influential in my development.
” He recommended that I use my left foot to control the ball instead of my right when I am on the left, in order to more effectively engage with my opponent. It has now become second nature.