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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Rich Jones

Arsenal fans react to Gabriel Martinelli debut as new signing scores in US opener

Gabriel Martinelli enjoyed a memorable Arsenal debut capped off with a goal as the Gunners started their US tour with a win.

The Brazilian playmaker grabbed the third goal in a 3-0 success with a smart second half finish with his chest to convert a powerful Dominic Thompson cross.

It marked the culmination of an impressive display from Martinelli after his £5m arrival from Ituano.

The teenager was heavily involved from the outset, firing a chance just wide in the opening five minutes after working some space inside the box and being involved in plenty of bright moments.

He also impressed with his work rate and tracking before being substituted for Mesut Ozil with just over 10 minutes remaining.

Gabriel Martinelli impressed on his Arsenal debut and grabbed a well-deserved goal (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

And Arsenal fans were impressed with what they saw on his opening display as they left the game convinced their only signing of the summer so far can make an impact sooner than expected.

The Brazilian was labelled "very special" after showing his capabilities to stand out in a young side.

One fan confidently stated: "We've got a gem on our hands" as another added he "looks legit".

Martinelli is Unai Emery's only signing so far this summer transfer window (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

They also predicted a "Guendouzi type breakthrough this season" as he impressed with his crossing and workrate in the wide right position.

It was said "he looks much better than you would expect a Brazilian 4th tier player to be".

He was compared to Lukas Podolski by one fan for his "attacking awareness" and movement.

Others felt there was still more to come, declaring: "He'll do even better when he plays with the first team players".

Martinelli's goal came after Bukayo Saka chipped in the opener early on and James Olayinka curled in a stunning second before the break.

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