Martinelli Omits Arteta in Farewell Message After £60m Al Hilal Transfer

Gabriel Martinelli completed a £60 million move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, with the transfer announced on Thursday, September 4, 2026. In his social media farewell, the 25-year-old Brazilian thanked Arsenal’s security, media, medical, kit, cleaning, and chef staff, as well as his teammates and fans, but made no mention of manager Mikel Arteta nor included a picture of him.

The omission highlights a potential strain between player and manager, especially as Arteta has reportedly preferred Christos Tzolis and Ebere Eze for the left-wing position. Martinelli’s exit underscores the growing pull of Saudi finances on Premier League talent and signals a shift in Arsenal’s attacking options under Arteta.

Martinelli joined Arsenal in 2019 and had been a regular left-wing option before losing playing time to the newer signings. While the club has not issued an official statement on the transfer, the player’s grateful note to everyone except the manager suggests a clean break rather than an amicable departure.

As Arsenal integrates Tzolis and Eze into the squad, should supporters view Martinelli’s departure as a loss of experience or an opportunity for fresh talent to establish themselves on the left flank?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/04/epl-martinelli-snubs-arteta-after-leaving-arsenal-for-al-hilal/