“As a defender, i hate to play against a player like him, because whenever the ball is his legs, he’s too sharp and will never allow you to breath even for a seconds with his unpredictable movements”- Liverpool star Konate names the main Arsenal star that gave Him tough time yesterday
“As a defender, i hate to play against a player like him, because whenever the ball is his legs, he’s too sharp and will never allow you to breath even for a seconds with his unpredictable movements”- Liverpool star Konate names the Arsenal star that gave Him tough time yesterday
Gary Neville was truly astounded by Gabriel Martinelli’s remarkable play, orchestrating an early opportunity for Bukayo Saka in Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool at the Emirates on Sunday.
The breakthrough eventually came in the first half when Saka netted, but earlier in the game, he had a golden chance that he failed to capitalize on. Martinelli, positioned on the left flank, exploited Trent Alexander-Arnold’s positional vulnerability, forcing Ibrahima Konate to confront him.
With an impressive burst of speed, the Brazilian left the Liverpool center-back trailing, delivering a sublime cross towards the six-yard box, seemingly tailor-made for Saka to convert. Regrettably, the winger misjudged the connection and sent the header wide, leaving Mikel Arteta frustrated.
Gary Neville, sharing his thoughts on Sky Sports (broadcast on 4/2; 16:41), marveled at Martinelli’s contribution, stating, “Breathtaking from Martinelli. How has Saka not scored? Trent Alexander-Arnold gambles here, I don’t know why he doesn’t run back with him. But he leaves Konate to deal with it. Well, he tries. That’s all I can say. Martinelli is lightning quick because Konate’s no slouch.”
Despite Arsenal’s attackers enduring a somewhat lackluster season, Martinelli, at 22, seems to be reigniting his form. His electrifying run served as a poignant reminder of the threat he poses for the Gunners.
Liverpool narrowly escaped falling behind during that particular attack, revealing the struggle both Konate and Alexander-Arnold faced in containing Martinelli’s threat throughout the intense first 45 minutes of the top-of-the-table clash at the Emirates on Sunday.
