• A notable departure post-triumph?

  According to Silvestre, Arsenal’s squad is likely to undergo adjustments should the Gunners clinch the Premier League title. The London club could secure their first championship since 2004 by winning their two remaining fixtures against already-relegated Burnley and Crystal Palace.

  This achievement would see Mikel Arteta become the first Arsenal manager since Arsène Wenger to lift the coveted trophy. Their closest rivals, Manchester City, currently sit two points behind and still face formidable opponents in an in-form Bournemouth and Europa League finalists Aston Villa.

  Regardless of whether the London side achieves a Premier League-Champions League double – with a potential final against Paris Saint-Germain on the horizon – the club’s management is expected to reinforce Arteta’s squad this summer.

  
  

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• Martinelli’s reduced role sparks speculation

  While several fringe players might be moved on, former Arsenal defender Silvestre believes the timing could be ‘just right’ for Gabriel Martinelli to depart the club. Martinelli, who debuted for the first team in 2019, is currently Arsenal’s longest-serving player, having amassed nearly 300 appearances for the Gunners.

  Despite playing over 100 matches in each of the last two seasons, the Brazilian international has primarily been utilized as a substitute this year, starting only ten league games. This inconsistent playing time could very well prompt the 22-cap international to seek a new challenge beyond North London.

  
  

• Silvestre’s assessment of the Brazilian talent

  “Gabriel Martinelli might look to force a transfer due to his lack of playing time,” Silvestre commented. “As a Brazilian international, he desires to play regularly, and currently, Leandro Trossard is ahead of him in that regard. Therefore, he might explore other options, especially considering his long tenure at the club. Leaving after winning the championship would be the opportune moment for him, but he must find the right club, and Arsenal would then need to secure a suitable replacement. Otherwise, I don’t foresee a need for reinforcements in any other position.”

• A potential successor emerges

  Arsenal is reportedly showing keen interest in Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, as the London club looks to bolster its attacking options this summer. Silvestre suggests that the young Frenchman could be an ideal candidate to step in should Martinelli decide to leave the Emirates Stadium.

  Silvestre elaborated: “If Martinelli were to depart, Bradley Barcola could certainly compete with Trossard. However, he still needs to refine certain aspects of his game, which is why he isn’t yet a regular starter in the Champions League. Nevertheless, he already possesses numerous qualities. If he sharpens his finishing, he will become a complete player, as he is already very impressive and difficult to contain in individual duels, creating space, delivering assists, and making key passes.”

By Anne Nkeng — Société et culture