€85m Arsenal star confirms Man Utd did not want to sign him after multiple trials
Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli has recalled his failed trial with Manchester United during his time with Brazilian fourth-tier club Ituano.
The 22-year-old is currently one of the undisputed starters for the Gunners. He has contributed 40 goals and 22 assists from 158 games in all competitions.
Martinelli has established himself as a key player under manager Mikel Arteta, but things could have been different, had United been impressed by his trials.
The Brazilian had a number of visits to Manchester during his teenage years with the last of those at the age of 17. However, he was never admitted into their academy.
Martinelli personally revealed the same in ‘The Player’s Tribune‘. In a recent interview with ESPN Brasil, he recalled the setback and said that things happen for a reason.
He said: “I was hoping… when you get a trial you think it’s going to work out. And at a club the size of Manchester United, it makes you anxious.”
“But things happen for a reason. It wasn’t where I was supposed to be, it was at Arsenal. And everything worked out for me to go to Arsenal.”
Martinelli was a relatively unknown during this time with Ituano. He had multiple trials with United, but the coaches were not convinced over his potential.
The Gunners took the gamble of signing him in the end for €7.1m in 2019. It has paid off for them with the winger becoming a mainstay in their XI.
The Brazilian’s pace and quick dribbling on the counter-attack has made him a huge hit. United may have some regrets over not signing him.
Hopefully, this can be considered as a lesson for the future. The Red Devils need to take more time in assessing talents who they take on trials.
The fee paid for Martinelli looks a huge bargain for Mikel Arteta’s side, considering he is currently valued at a hefty €85 million by Transfermarkt.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
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