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‘I know what I can do’: Gabriel Martinelli RETURNS to his appeal from critics in Brazil after former international Neto called the inclusion of the Arsenal star in their World Cup squad ‘a JOKE’… but admits questions about his selection ‘are’ normal’
- Gabriel Martinelli has defended his call-up for Brazil’s 26-man World Cup squad
- Neto said the Arsenal striker’s shooting was ‘a joke’ after just three caps
- The 21-year-old responded ‘I know what I can do’ and is eager to prove himself
- Brazil kicks off their World Cup campaign in Qatar on November 24 against Serbia
Gabriel Martinelli has defended his call to Brazil’s squad for the World Cup, despite some criticism of the decision.
The Arsenal forward has only made three appearances for his national team, with no goals to date, but club performances helped him secure his place in Tite’s squad.
He was a key part of Brazil’s under-23 squad that won Olympic gold at the Tokyo Games last summer.
Gabriel Martinelli has defended his call for Brazil’s World Cup squad despite criticism
However, the inclusion of the 21-year-old in the World Cup squad – for Gabigol – the star of Copa Libertadores – was labeled ‘a joke’ by former international Neto, who claimed Brazilians do not know who he is, as previously reported by Sportpost. .
Martinelli responded to the claims when he told ESPN Brasil: ‘I think this is normal. Some people in Brazil don’t know me and it’s normal to say that other players deserved to be there. But I’m pretty cool with it. I think this is normal.
“I know what I’m doing at my club, I know my abilities and I know what I can do. And you can be sure that I will do my best for the Brazilian team, in everything I can help the team, I will help. It will be a great experience for me.’
Arsenal, currently at the top of the Premier League table, will see some of their players grace the World Cup podium for their country. Thursday’s England squad announcement included the names of Bukayo Saka, Aaron Ramsdale and Ben White.
Martinelli only played three senior games for Brazil, but got the nod for Gabigol
Martinelli added: “It’s good for Arsenal to have players in the World Cup. And everyone was very happy, we are a very united team. There was also the call from Bukayo, Aaron, Ben, so we’re happy for each other.
“We know we are at the top of the Premier League, but this is just the beginning and there is still a lot of work to be done.”
Arsenal’s last game before the World Cup is a Premier League match at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday night.
Brazil’s Qatar campaign kicks off against Serbia on November 24, before taking on Switzerland and Cameroon in their remaining Group G matches.
The 21-year-old is part of the Brazilian front line, which includes fellow shooter Gabriel Jesus in addition to Neymar, Antony and Vinicius Junior.
Brazilian boss Tite has a range of attacking choices in his 26-man roster, including Gabriel Jesus