Gabriel Teodoro Martinelli Silva began his professional football career with Ituano, where he emerged as the club's youngest player of the century at sixteen. His rapid development in the Campeonato Paulista prompted a £6 million transfer to Premier League side Arsenal in 2019, marking the start of a career that eventually reached the international stage with Brazil.
Early Development and Ituano
Born in Guarulhos, São Paulo, in 2001, Martinelli initially trained with the Corinthians futsal team beginning in 2010. He transitioned to Ituano in 2015 and undertook trials with European clubs Manchester United and Barcelona before signing his first professional contract in November 2017. He debuted on 17 March 2018 against São Bento, later becoming the team's top goalscorer during the 2019 Campeonato Paulista campaign.
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Upon joining Arsenal in 2019, Martinelli quickly moved from academy prospects to the first team. He scored a brace in his competitive debut against Nottingham Forest and became the first player since Ian Wright to score four goals in his first four starts. Under manager Mikel Arteta, his role transitioned from a central forward to a left-wing position, utilizing his dribbling speed. He secured significant team honors during his time in London, including the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the FA Community Shield.
International Competition
Martinelli earned international recognition as part of the Brazil squad that claimed gold at the 2020 Summer Olympics, which were held in Japan during 2021. He made his senior debut for the Brazil national team in 2022. Subsequently, he represented his country in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2024 Copa América, and the 2026 World Cup.
Move to Al-Hilal
In 2026, Martinelli concluded his tenure in the Premier League to join the Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. The transfer was completed for a fee of £60 million, marking a new phase in his professional association football career following his years of development and success in the English top flight.
Fast facts
- Born: 18 June 2001, Guarulhos
- Professional Debut: 17 March 2018
- Arsenal Transfer Fee: £6 million
- Al-Hilal Transfer Fee: £60 million
- Olympic Medal: Gold, 2020 Summer Olympics
- Position: Forward or left winger
- First Professional Club: Ituano
Questions readers ask
Did Martinelli play for any European clubs before joining Arsenal?
He had trials at Manchester United and Barcelona while playing for Ituano.
What major trophies did he win with Arsenal?
He won the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the FA Community Shield.
