Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte today brings a pretty interesting story about Gabriel Martinelli’s future in international football.
The reason for that is because following Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Chelsea this week, Blues midfielder Jorginho has sent a message about playing for Italy.
“We are together there in March, we are waiting for you there,” said Jorginho, who was born in Brazil, but plays for the European country.
Gabriel Martinelli has an Italian passport, and that’s the reason why it was easy for him to get a work permit following his move from Ituano.
“He is really doing an incredible job,” said Jorginho. “He burst out of nowhere… He has the merit that he was ready the moment the opportunity came. He’s standing out, he deserves it, and I hope he can help the Italian team a lot.”
Globo Esporte reports that Italy called the striker up to play for their U19 squad in September, but he’s turned down the invite, claiming he’d be too busy with Arsenal. However, when called by Brazil to play for the U23 squad in November, he joined the team and played for 90 minutes.
It’s said that Brazil manager Tite was with his staff watching the game at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, as well as officials from the Italian national team.
Gabriel Martinelli hasn’t chosen who to play for so far, but it shouldn’t take long until he’s called up for the first teams, and that’s when he’ll have to make his final decision.
