BRAZIL NUTS
Martinelli cried after call-up
GABRIEL MARTINELLI says he “couldn’t even talk” to his family after breaking down in tears following a life-changing call-up to Brazil’s World Cup squad for Qatar.
The 21-year-old forward was forced to hang up the phone on his loved ones amid the ecstasy, as his red-hot form for Arsenal earned him a place in Tite’s 26-man travelling party.
Martinelli has been one of the standout performers for Mikel Arteta’s table-topping Arsenal side this season, having scored five goals and registered two assists in 13 topflight matches.
The jet-heeled star is one goal shy of equalling his best Premier League goal tally, and is looking forward to making an impact in Qatar.
Brazil have won the trophy five times and are again rated as the tournament favourites.
Martinelli said: “I’m very happy – it’s one of the most important moments in my life and in my family’s life as well.
“I’m buzzing to go there and be part of this team.
“I cried a lot...I was with my family on the phone.
“But I needed to turn the phone off and call them later because I couldn’t even talk.
“It will be good for my career and to play in the World Cup will be amazing. I’m so excited to go there and I’m prepared for the challenge – I hope we will win it.” Martinelli believes his scintillating start to the campaign with Arsenal has been integral to his inclusion. The youngster also detailed his first conversation with head coach Arteta following the call-up.
Martinelli said: “My form has been so important because if I’m not playing good at Arsenal, I cannot be called up. “That’s why I’m there – because I’m doing well with the club.
“When I talked to Mikel he was so happy for me, said congratulations, and said go there and smash it.” Martinelli, signed by the Gunners from Ituano for a fee of £6million in the summer of 2019, has made three appearances for his country.
He will be joined in the World Cup squad by clubmate Gabriel Jesus. But central defender Gabriel Magalhaes missed the cut, with Gleison Bremer of Juventus chosen ahead of the 24-year-old. Gabriel grabbed the only goal last Sunday as Arsenal beat London rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.