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Football London
Football London
Sport
Andy Ha

Raul Sanllehi and Edu proved right after Gabriel Martinelli delivers Arsenal transfer statement

Gabriel Martinelli has dismissed speculation linking him with a move away from Arsenal, and says he is ready to commit his future and become "a legend" at the club.

The Brazilian teenager moved to the Emirates Stadium from Ituano FC last summer, with technical director Edu playing a key role in securing his signature, along with head of football Raul Sanllehi.

Martinelli has quickly made an impression during his first season in England, hitting double figures in all competitions and breaking into the first-team fold.

His performances have reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid, with the suggestion that Arsenal are now scrambling to secure the teenager down to an improved contract.

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However, Martinelli has stated that supporters have nothing to worry about as he is focused on his long-term future in north London, and ready to win silverware for the Gunners.

"I want to win the Champions League and lots of domestic titles to make Arsenal’s fans very happy," the striker told FourFourTwo.

"They deserve the best, not only the supporters but all of the club’s staff.

"I’d like to give back to the club after everything they’ve done for me so far and, as a result, become a Gunners legend."

Martinelli was also full of praise for head coach Mikel Arteta, after initially making his debut under former boss Unai Emery earlier in the season.

"He’s been brilliant," Martinelli added.

"He pays a lot of attention to moves and keeps pushing me to improve my game; not only in attack but defence, too."

"The boss is very wise tactically and incredibly helpful. He’s not an angry guy at all, but likes showing you exactly what to do on the pitch: 'If the ball goes that way, don’t stay here, go there and turn your body that specific way...'"

"He has a keen eye for detail."

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