Gabriel Martinelli admits he was disappointed with Arsenal after Brazil’s request for him to feature for the Under-23s was rejected.
The 18-year-old has shone for the Gunners this season, scoring 10 goals in all competitions and featuring in Mikel Arteta’s immediate plans since his takeover.
Despite winning two caps already for Brazil Under-23s, the Gunners rejected the request for the player to star in the pre-Olympic tournament that runs from 18 January to 9 February.
“I said that if it was up to me I would play,” Martinelli told UOL. “But we knew it would be difficult.
“It was a time when I was a starter at Arsenal, and people preferred not to let me go.
“He (Brazil general coordinator Juninho Paulista) already called me, spoke to me and congratulated me on what I’m doing.
“I haven’t been called up yet, but I’m very calm about it.
“We talked a little after he went to the national team. He called me, said that this was the opportunity of my life, that I should give my best because things would go well.”
Martinelli could play senior international football for Italy through his father’s side of the family.
Brazil, meanwhile, have reached the final group stage of the CONMEBOL tournament, but sit on one point from one game after drawing against Colombia.
Argentina lead the group on three points, with Brazil next facing Uruguay on 6 February and the Albiceleste on 10 February.
Without Martinelli, Brazil has looked to Matheus Cunha, of Hertha Berlin, and Pepe, of Gremio, for goals, who both have three, one behind Alexis Mac Allister on four.
