In a mere 26 minutes into the new Premier League season, Gabriel Martinelli left his mark by delivering a remarkable assist for Eddie Nketiah’s opening goal against Nottingham Forest.
The initial kick-off was pushed back to 1pm due to difficulties with Arsenal’s new electronic ticketing system, which resulted in fans being stranded outside the Emirates Stadium.
Nevertheless, a packed stadium witnessed Martinelli’s brilliant contribution as he orchestrated an extraordinary assist for Arsenal’s inaugural goal of the season.
Starting from the left side, the Brazilian player skillfully initiated a dribble down the left flank.
Despite the challenge posed by two defenders, he adeptly maneuvered his way past both opponents, displaying a remarkable piece of Samba-inspired skill that left onlookers astounded.
Swiftly transferring the ball onto his alternate foot, Martinelli executed a precise flick that propelled the ball directly into Nketiah’s trajectory.
The result was Nketiah securing Arsenal’s lead with a deflected shot, capitalizing on Martinelli’s remarkable assist.
Oh wow, that was lovely Gabriel Martinelli! 😮💨
Eddie Nketiah finishes the move to put Arsenal 1-0 up!
📺 Watch live on TNT Sports & discovery+ pic.twitter.com/2XLtMTycQj
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) August 12, 2023
Ally McCoist was salivating at the mouth watching the brilliance from the TNT Sports commentary booth.
Arsenal, who beat Manchester City on penalties to win the Community Shield at Wembley last week, extended their lead shortly after courtesy of starboy Bukayo Saka.
The forward received the ball from William Saliba and cut in from the right flank before unleashing an unstoppable strike past Matt Turner.
STOP THAT, BUKAYO SAKA! 🚀
📺 Watch live on TNT Sports & discovery+ pic.twitter.com/eC0BDyjrtP
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) August 12, 2023
Facing the fierce strike, the American goalkeeper – who had recently departed Arsenal for Nottingham Forest – found himself with little chance of thwarting the unstoppable rocket.
During the initial stages, Nottingham Forest showcased robust defensive efforts, yet Arsenal quickly shifted gears, with their wingers reigniting the magic that had frequently graced the previous season.
Despite holding the lead for substantial periods, Arsenal relinquished their Premier League supremacy in the end, finishing five points behind a triumphant Manchester City squad that clinched a historic treble through an astonishing streak.
In a bid to outperform last season’s runner-up status, Mikel Arteta’s squad made significant investments, spending a total of £208 million to secure talents such as Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber.
Completing their summer dealings, Arsenal are poised to secure Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, who is anticipated to join on loan with an option to purchase.