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Football London
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Bobby Vincent

Rio Ferdinand has delivered verdict on Gabriel Martinelli amid Mason Greenwood debate

Rio Ferdinand has weighed in on the big debate that's happening on Twitter concerning who's better out of Arsenal youngster Gabriel Martinelli and Manchester United ace Mason Greenwood.

The two 19-year-old prodigies have both shown unbelievable talent in the Premier League in their short careers so far.

The Gunners forward is yet to make an appearance for Mikel Arteta 's side this season due to a knee injury.

However, the Brazilian teenager's start to life in North London has been fantastic and he has quickly become a fan favourite at the Emirates Stadium.

Martinelli scored 10 goals in his first 26 games in all competitions for Arsenal last season, including a wonderful solo goal against Chelsea in the Premier League.

The Gunners starlet picked up the ball from his own half and ran through the Blues' team before slotting into the net at Stamford Bridge.

As for Greenwood, he netted 18 times in all competitions during his breakthrough season with Manchester United.

So far this campaign, the England international has scored twice in nine eight appearances for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's men.

There's been a big debate on Twitter between mostly Arsenal and Man United supporters about which one of their teenage sensations is better.

Ferdinand, speaking on his Instagram page, weighed in on the matter, talking about the brilliance of Martinelli.

"To be 18-years-old, doing what he's doing. The goal against Chelsea alone, he runs from the edge of his box - a set-piece against his team - he takes it to the other end," the Man United legend said.

"Normally, your legs are gone by then, you've got no energy and no juice in your legs, but he has the composure to slot it.

"Great player, but the awareness of the way he plays, the way he moves on the pitch, the intelligence to receive the ball, the positions he takes up.

"He comes inside at the right time to allow Saka to have space on the outside and ask the opposing full-backs the questions; 'Are you gonna come inside with me, or are you gonna stay with Saka?'.

"It's mad. He's a mature player for such a young kid."

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