Arteta gives reasons for allowing Arsenal trio to leave on loan, reacts to new Martinelli deal
Mikel Arteta is delighted to see Gabriel Martinelli commit his future to Arsenal after the Brazilian signed a new contract on Friday.
The Gunners released a statement today confirming that Martinelli has signed until 2027 with the club possessing the option of extending his deal by another year.
And Arteta was pleased to see one of his brightest young talents put pen to paper with the Arsenal boss insisting that Martinelli can still improve a lot.
Arteta told reporters on Friday: “It’s great to see him happy and ready to commit to the club, He has huge potential, and there are so many areas to improve in all departments. In terms of consistency, in terms of the space he occupies. He is so willing, that is the first thing about Gabi.”
On signing more key players to new deals, Arteta added: “Part of the plan is the extend the contracts of the biggest talents at our club. The others will be done whenever we can. I see everyone really happy and willing to continue with the club.”
Jorginho signed for Arsenal from Chelsea on deadline day after the club had two offers for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo rejected.
Asked when he became aware of Jorginho’s availability in January, Arteta replied: “We knew in this market you have to adapt and be flexible. You need great characters, leadership in positions.
“I don’t think it was that late, but it was very close to the deadline.
“His intelligence, his personality and leadership skill, he understands our way of playing. He fits really well with what I want to do.
“You have to adapt to the circumstances you have, and now we have improved the squad.”
Arsenal also allowed some players to leave on loan with Marquinhos joining Championship outfit Norwich City and Albert Sambi Lokonga and Cedric Soares moving to Premier League sides Crystal Palace and Fulham respectively.
On the loan departures, Arteta continued: “It was a really tricky one, but in the end really positive. We had three key areas we wanted to improve, and got players at a great level.
“Sambi [Albert Sambi Lokonga] needs time to develop, and we have found the right club. Marquinhos, it will be a really good test for him, and Cedric was demanding minutes. It was difficult to let him go but we have to respect his wishes to play.”
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