It’s no secret that Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli could be playing for another club now if things had gone differently earlier in his career.
Long before he joined the Gunners in a move from Ituano, the Brazilian had some tests at the likes of Manchester United and Barcelona.
This subject was mentioned by TNT Sports journalist Fred Caldeira, who had an exclusive conversation with Martinelli.
Asked about those visits to Manchester United and Barcelona, the Arsenal player recalled some of the big stars he saw at the time.
“It was an incredible experience. You’re a boy, always watching these players on TV, and getting to know them personally is something that makes you happy. You’re proud to be there, to have the opportunity to meet them. It was really cool,” said Martinelli.
“I always took pictures. I still have pictures with Ibra, Pogba, Evra, Giggs. I met these players not at the same time, because Giggs was before.
“Yes, I went to Barcelona, but at the time I stayed in La Masia, so I ended up not seeing any players.
It’s worth recalling that Martinelli was very young when tested by Manchester United and Barcelona, and even Brazilian side Corinthians regret not having kept him in his teenage years.
The attacker had been playing for non-league side Ituano when Arsenal and Edu Gaspar went after him, and the Gunners only spent €7.1m to take him to England.
Martinelli now has 40 goals and 23 assists in 161 games for Arsenal, not to mention the nine caps for the national team. He’s one of the many players who some European giants will forever regret not having signed.
