Gabriel Martinelli has showcased his undeniable value to Arsenal, with a series of impactful performances that suggest it is far too premature to dismiss his career at the club. After experiencing a challenging period that saw him lose his regular starting spot, the Brazil international has responded emphatically, delivering crucial contributions from the bench this week.

Martinelli enjoyed an excellent week, scoring and assisting in Arsenal's Champions League victory over Athletic Club, before netting a vital stoppage-time equalizer against Manchester City in the Premier League. This late goal salvaged a 1-1 draw for Arsenal, demonstrating his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. His goal against Athletic Club came just 36 seconds after his introduction as a substitute, leading Arsenal to a 2-0 win in their Champions League opener.

Despite starting only two of Arsenal's six games this season, Martinelli's recent displays highlight his significance to the team. Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott praised Martinelli's resilience and attitude, stating, "You can either sit there and sulk about things or you can actually have a look at yourself and think how am I going to affect the situation I am in." Walcott noted that Martinelli, who was a consistent starter last year, is now learning to adapt to an 'in and out' role but is doing so in the right way through hard work and dedication. Martinelli's goals this week notably played to his strengths, utilizing his pace to run onto balls played behind the opposition defence.

Addressing his situation, the 24-year-old winger acknowledged his desire to play 90 minutes every game but expressed trust in manager Mikel Arteta's decisions. "I work for those moments. I leave [selection] for the gaffer, he knows what he does. I just do my best to help this football club," Martinelli remarked. He further elaborated on his commitment to hard work, stating, "It's for these moments that I work so hard, that I sacrifice so much during the week in training, in everything in my life, to live these moments. Only God, my family, and my wife know how much I have been working and dedicating myself to get back to my best."

Martinelli's low confidence and the public debate surrounding his place in the team were also recognized by Walcott, who emphasized the need for players to deal with such mixed messages. His immediate impact after being benched, such as scoring against Athletic Club and then against City, underscores his professional approach to adversity. The goal against Manchester City came in the third minute of added time when he latched onto Eberechi Eze's long ball, catching City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma off his line, a move reminiscent of a previous encounter with the goalkeeper in the Champions League where Donnarumma had made a crucial save.

The draw against Manchester City leaves Arsenal five points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool. Martinelli's recent resurgence not only provides a significant boost to Arsenal's campaign but also serves as a testament to his determination and the positive manner in which he is navigating a challenging phase of his career.