Arsenal have been dealt a worrying setback ahead of their upcoming Premier League showdown with Newcastle United, as winger Gabriel Martinelli was forced to leave the club’s open training session early due to a suspected injury.
The Brazilian forward was participating in Arsenal’s open session at the Emirates Stadium—a public event that gives fans a rare glimpse into the team’s preparations—when he appeared to pull up and exit the session prematurely. While the club has yet to provide an official update on his condition, early signs have raised concerns that the 23-year-old could be at risk of missing this weekend’s match.
Martinelli has been a key part of Mikel Arteta’s attacking setup in recent seasons, known for his blistering pace, relentless energy, and ability to create chances from wide positions. Although he has endured a slightly less explosive campaign this year, his importance to the squad remains unquestioned, especially with Arsenal pushing to finish the season strongly.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 29: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal encourages the fans during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg match between Arsenal FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Emirates Stadium on April 29, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Fans at the Emirates witnessed Martinelli’s early departure with visible concern, as he was seen speaking with medical staff before heading down the tunnel. The forward did not return to training, sparking fears that he may have picked up a muscle-related injury—a common occurrence during the intense final stretch of the season.
The timing of the potential injury couldn’t be worse for Arteta, who is already juggling a congested fixture schedule and managing player fitness across multiple competitions. With the Gunners hosting a dangerous Newcastle United side next, Martinelli’s availability could be crucial in helping Arsenal break down a team known for its physicality and attacking threat.
Should Martinelli be ruled out, Arteta will be forced to shuffle his front line. Leandro Trossard could be in line for a starting role on the left wing, while other options such as Raheem Sterling or Myles Lewis-Skelly could also be called upon depending on the tactical setup.
The club is expected to assess Martinelli further over the next 24–48 hours before making any final decisions. Arsenal fans will hope that the withdrawal was merely precautionary and that the Brazilian will be available for the vital Premier League clash.
Martinelli’s season has had moments of brilliance, including key goals and assists in big games, and losing him now—at such a critical point—would be a blow to Arsenal’s ambitions of finishing the campaign on a high. With only two matches remaining after the Newcastle game, every point is vital in what has been one of the tightest title races in recent years.
For now, all eyes are on Arsenal’s medical update. Arteta will be hoping for good news, but the early signs suggest Martinelli could be a doubt for Saturday.
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