🚨 BREAKING: “He’s Suspended Until Further Notice” – Arteta Drops Shock Bombshell on Arsenal Star After Brentford Horror Show! Not Ødegaard, Not Saka!
London, Emirates Stadium – April 12, 2025
In the aftermath of Arsenal’s frustrating 1-1 draw against Brentford, Mikel Arteta has made a stunning call — Gabriel Martinelli has been suspended from the squad indefinitely, and will not feature in the Champions League clash against Real Madrid.
> “There’s no way I’m fielding him against Madrid with what he showed today in front of our home fans,” Arteta reportedly told his coaching staff post-match. “We need players who take responsibility — today, he didn’t.”
Martinelli’s Nightmare Performance
Despite being one of Arteta’s most trusted forwards this season, Martinelli had a torrid display, misplacing passes, failing to beat his marker, and losing key duels. His decision-making in the final third was especially poor, with two clear chances squandered and minimal link-up play with Saka and Ødegaard.
While the 22-year-old winger has dazzled in moments this season, Arteta’s reaction shows a zero-tolerance approach to underperformance, especially with the Madrid tie looming large.
Arteta’s Brutal Assessment
According to inside reports, Arteta told Martinelli in the dressing room:
> “This isn’t just about talent. It’s about mentality. We can’t afford passengers against a team like Madrid.”
This marks the first time Arteta has publicly dropped a key player for disciplinary or performance reasons, sending shockwaves through the dressing room — and a clear message: no one is untouchable.
Who Replaces Martinelli?
With Martinelli now suspended and David Raya also dropped, Arteta is expected to bring in Leandro Trossard or even promote Reiss Nelson for the Madrid showdown. Kieran Tierney, meanwhile, is in line for a surprise return to the starting XI for the first time this season, as part of a five-man overhaul to the frontline.
What This Means
Arsenal’s draw with Brentford may have cost them points, but Arteta is using the fallout to reassert control, discipline, and accountability ahead of their biggest test of the season.
Martinelli now faces a critical moment: respond and fight his way back in—or risk watching the rest of the season from the bench.
All eyes now turn to Madrid. Will Arteta’s ruthless decision spark redemption—or regret?
