Gabriel Martinelli is revelling in the success he is enjoying at Arsenal, but concedes that he was snubbed by Barcelona before making a move to the Emirates.
The 18-year-old’s potential was spotted by Barcelona before Arsenal joined the chase for his signature. A trial spell was taken in with the Liga giants, but no offer was made.
Martinelli, who ended up joining Arsenal in the summer of 2019, told Marca of his experiences with Barcelona: “Shortly before the Sao Paulo Cup I spent a few days training in Barcelona. I spent 15 days there.
“Barcelona invited me to train with them in La Masia but afterwards they didn’t want to do anything with me, they didn’t tell me anything … I went back to Ituano, I played Copinha and then I came to Arsenal.”
Martinelli added on those he played with in Catalunya: “They were all very good, I took full advantage and gave my best.
“To see how they train, know the structure of the club, the city … it was a dream come true.
“I even trained with Ansu Fati and we became friends. He helped me a lot there and is now playing in the main team. He is a boy who deserves everything that is happening to him. He is super humble and welcomed me really well there.”
While embracing the chance to train with Barcelona, Martinelli concedes to having grown up wanting to follow in the footsteps of a Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo.
“My idol is Cristiano Ronaldo,” said the Gunners player.
“I admire him very much for the strength of will he has, for the way he works and for everything … for the individual and collective awards he earns.
“He is a guy who does not conform, he always wants more. That is what I want for myself: to always be conquering things. He is a great example of that.”
