Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli looks like he could have a tough decision to make in the coming months about his international future.
According to the Mirror, both Brazil and Italy are interested in snapping him up after a bright start to the season.
He was born in Brazil but qualifies for Italy through his Father, a factor that helped him get a work permit and join Arsenal over the summer despite not being capped at any age group by Brazil – so which country would he be better off representing?
Read Arsenal verdict
Martinelli has time on his hands as he looks to make a decision, but with countries vying against one another for the best young stars, they could try and force him into a decision sooner than he realises.
Brazil are in a good moment, winning the Copa America earlier this year. Not only that, they also have a wealth of quality attacking options.
Italy are in much more of a transitional period, with Roberto Mancini looking to bring through the next generation of young Italian footballers.
The former Man City boss has given plenty of opportunities to young stars, so Martinelli may fancy his chances of breaking through there when compared to Brazil, who haven’t yet capped Martinelli at any youth level.
The young Gunners star now has a decision to make. On paper, representing Italy looks like the better career move – but having been born in Brazil there may be a personal desire from him to try and break into the Selecao.
Comments.
Loading comments…