Ahead of Arsenal’s match against Brentford, former Gunners midfielder Emmanuel Petit expressed frustration with Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus for their performances this season. However, both players responded empathically during the 3-1 over Bees, with Jesus and Martinelli both scoring to help Arsenal from the goal down. Jesus equalized in the first half after Bryan Mbeumo’s opening goal, playing a key role in Mikel Arteta’s side’s comeback.
Arsenal’s Response To Petit’s Criticism As Jesus And Martinelli Shine Against Brentford
Mikel Merino gave Arsenal the lead in the second half, followed by Gabriel Martinelli’s second goal in three games to seal the victory. Jesus’ strike marked his sixth goal in just four matches. The 3-1 win put Arsenal within six points of Liverpool, as they continue without key player Bukayo Saka. Emmanuel Petit, the World Cup winner, had previously voiced concerns over Martinelli and Jesus stepping up in Saka’s absence, calling it a significant blow for the team. “Saka being out for a few weeks is a huge blow, but others now need to step up and take responsibility,” Petit said. “I’ve been waiting for some players to reach the next level, and I’m quite frustrated that they haven’t yet.”
Petit Criticizes Martinelli And Jesus For Lack Of Consistency
Petit stated “I’m particularly thinking about Gabriel Martinelli. I’m not satisfied with his performances. He had a good game against Crystal Palace recently, but that alone isn’t enough. When you compare his journey to Bukayo Saka’s—both started around the same time—Saka has improved year after year and become one of the Premier League’s best players. I keep wondering when Martinelli will reach that level. He’s not the only one; Gabriel Jesus is also in the same boat. While he’s played well recently, it’s still not enough. If you want to win titles and consistently compete for the top honors, you need regularity and consistency in your performances. You also have to take responsibility when your best players are injured.”
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Keown Praises Martinelli And Jesus After Key Goals Against Brentford
“I don’t see players stepping up at Arsenal, which is quite frustrating. I know they want to give their best and put in 100%, but that alone isn’t enough,” said Petit. However both Jesus and Martinelli answered their critics in the 3-1 victory over Brentford. Martin Keown, Petit’s former teammate, suggested that the goals scored on New Year’s Day could be pivotal for the duo to build on. Yet, Keown acknowledged that both players must continue to prove their consistency consistency to silence doubts. “It was a really important goal for Martinelli—this could be the start of a breakthrough for him,” Keown said on TNT Sports. “He needs to score more goals and keep answering the questions, as does Jesus. With Havertz absent, it was crucial that they stepped up.”