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Football London
Football London
Sport
Connor O'Neill

The Rio Ferdinand comments about Gabriel Martinelli that will excite Arsenal fans

Rio Ferdinand has named Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli in his list of five youngsters who he believes are destined for big things.

Martinelli has been one of the Gunners’ standout stars this season, scoring 10 times in all competitions for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Two of those goals came against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup back in November, with Reds boss Jurgen Klopp quick to praise the forward after the game.

“Martinelli’s pretty much the same age but he’s a talent of the century, he’s an incredible striker, so it’s really difficult,” he said.

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And now Ferdinand has echoed what the German had to say back in November, as well as speaking about how he believes the Brazilian will be “a major player in world football in years to come”.

"I watched him against Bournemouth away, I watched him against Chelsea,” the former Manchester United man said.

"He is a proper player, I think he'll be a major player in world football in years to come. To be 18-years-old and do what he is doing.

"The goal against Chelsea alone, he's got the composure to slot it. A great player, but his awareness and intelligence is mad."

The other four Premier League players Ferdinand listed were Trent Alexander-Arnold, Phil Foden, Reece James and Mason Greenwood.

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