Jurrien Timber was injured and couldn’t play a single match for the team, but he remained available to support his teammates throughout. Yesterday, he joined the players to lift and celebrate the trophy despite not being involved on the pitch.
Martinelli, on the other hand, had been involved in the preseason matches but was unfortunately left out of the squad to face Manchester City. That should not have prevented him from celebrating with his teammates after such a historic achievement. Yet, watching Martinelli yesterday, standing apart from his teammates as they celebrated the trophy, looking unconcerned and isolated, was heartbreaking. It gave the impression of a player who feels betrayed by the club he has given so much to.
Martinelli joined Arsenal on 2 July 2019 and made his competitive debut for the club on 11 August 2019 against Newcastle United. Since then, he has gone through the highs and lows of the club’s journey and played his part in helping Arsenal reach this level. At long last, he has won the league title and contributed to the club’s success. But seeing him yesterday, separated from the celebrations and unable to show the same excitement as his teammates, showed just how deeply hurt he may be.
Martinelli doesn’t want to leave, and if the club eventually decides to part ways with him, his wishes and everything he has given Arsenal should be respected. He deserves a beautiful farewell, not to be pushed towards a destination he doesn’t want to go to.
Behind the scenes, it increasingly feels as though the club is pushing him towards the exit, even when that may not be what he wants. That is what makes the situation so painful. Martinelli has given Arsenal years of commitment, loyalty and unforgettable moments.
If this really is the end of his Arsenal journey, he deserves to leave with dignity and appreciation. His love for the club should be remembered, and his departure should be handled with the respect he deserves, not by forcing him out.
