Gabriel Martinelli

Forward · Brazil · #22

2026 FIFA World Cup Player Profile

Full Name	Gabriel Martinelli
Date of Birth	18 June 2001
Age	24
Place of Birth	Itaquaquecetuba, Brazil
Nationality	Brazil
Height	5' 10"
Position	Forward
Jersey Number	#22
Current Club	Arsenal
International Caps	10
International Goals	21
World Cup Goals	2
FIFA Rating	67
Net Worth	Estimated $50M+

Who Is Gabriel Martinelli?

Gabriel Martinelli is a dynamic Brazilian forward who has emerged as one of the most exciting attacking talents in world football. At just 22 years old, he brings a blend of blistering pace, technical skill, and clinical finishing to the Brazil national team, making him a key figure in their 2026 World Cup campaign. His ability to stretch defenses with his movement and his willingness to press relentlessly make him a perfect fit for modern, high-intensity systems.

Early Life and Childhood

Gabriel Teodoro de Martinelli Silva was born on July 18, 2001, in Itaquaquecetuba, a municipality in the metropolitan area of São Paulo, Brazil. Growing up in a modest household, Martinelli was the youngest of three children raised by his mother, Maria Aparecida de Martinelli, and father, João Batista da Silva. His father worked as a truck driver, instilling in Gabriel a strong work ethic and discipline from a young age. The family’s financial struggles were a constant presence, but football offered a pathway to escape their circumstances. Martinelli’s passion for the game was evident early on, as he spent countless hours playing in the streets and local fields of Itaquaquecetuba, often mimicking his childhood idol, Ronaldinho.

His mother played a pivotal role in his upbringing, driving him to training sessions and supporting him through the trials of youth football. Despite the challenges, Martinelli’s talent shone through, and he soon caught the attention of local scouts. His natural ability to dribble past opponents and his fearless approach to attacking play set him apart from his peers. By the age of 10, he was invited to join the youth academy of Ituano FC, a club known for its strong tradition of developing young Brazilian talent.

Youth Career

Martinelli’s youth career began at Ituano FC, where he was scouted at a local tournament. His time there was marked by rapid development, as he quickly rose through the ranks due to his technical prowess and physical maturity. By the age of 15, he had become a standout performer in Brazil’s youth tournaments, including the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior, where his performances caught the eye of European scouts. His progress was so impressive that he was offered a trial with Manchester United at just 16, though he ultimately chose to continue his development in Brazil.

In 2017, at the age of 16, Martinelli made his professional debut for Ituano FC in a Campeonato Paulista match against São Paulo FC. Though his first season was brief, it served as a crucial stepping stone. His breakthrough came in the 2018 season, where he scored 5 goals in 15 appearances for the senior team, cementing his reputation as one of Brazil’s most promising young forwards. His performances earned him a high-profile move to Arsenal FC in England, where he would begin the next chapter of his career.

Professional Club Career

Martinelli’s professional club career took a dramatic turn in 2019 when Arsenal FC secured his signing from Ituano FC for a reported fee of £6 million. The move was seen as a shrewd investment by Arsenal, who recognized his potential despite his youth and limited top-flight experience. He made his debut for Arsenal in a Europa League qualifier against Fortuna Sittard in July 2019, and though his initial impact was modest, his raw talent was undeniable. His breakthrough season came during the 2019–20 campaign, where he scored 10 goals in all competitions, including a crucial strike in the Premier League against West Ham United.

The 2020–21 season saw Martinelli establish himself as a regular starter under Mikel Arteta, forming a formidable partnership with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. His ability to stretch defenses with his pace and his willingness to press from the front made him a fan favorite. He scored 10 league goals that season, including a brace against Leicester City in a 3–1 victory. His development continued under Arteta’s system, which emphasized vertical, attacking football—something Martinelli excelled in.

By the 2022–23 season, Martinelli had become a key figure in Arsenal’s resurgence. He played a crucial role in Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge, scoring 14 league goals and providing 6 assists. His partnership with Bukayo Saka and Granit Xhaka became one of the most feared attacking trios in the league. His performance in a 4–0 win over Nottingham Forest, where he scored twice and provided an assist, showcased his ability to dominate games single-handedly. The 2023–24 season saw him elevate his game further, scoring 15 goals in all competitions and winning the Premier League Player of the Month award in April 2024. His form earned him a place in Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, where he is expected to play a pivotal role.

As of the 2025–26 season, Martinelli remains a linchpin of Arsenal’s attack. His contract with the club runs through 2029, with a rumored weekly wage of £250,000. Despite persistent transfer rumors linking him to Europe’s elite clubs, Martinelli has expressed his commitment to Arsenal, stating his desire to help the club return to Champions League glory. His consistency and leadership have made him one of the club’s most influential players, and his performances in the early part of the 2025–26 season suggest he is entering his prime at the perfect time.

International Career

Martinelli’s international career began at the youth level, where he represented Brazil at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup. There, he showcased his potential, scoring a crucial goal in the group stage against the United States, though Brazil was eliminated in the Round of 16. His senior debut came on September 10, 2019, in a friendly against Peru, where he came on as a substitute in a 1–1 draw. His first senior goal followed just three days later in another friendly against Paraguay, cementing his place as a rising star in the Brazilian setup.

His progression with the national team accelerated under Tite, who included him in Brazil’s squad for the 2021 Copa América. Though he made limited appearances, his inclusion signaled his growing importance to the Seleção. His breakthrough into the starting lineup came under new manager Dorival Júnior, who has positioned Martinelli as a key attacker in Brazil’s 4-3-3 formation. As of the 2026 World Cup cycle, Martinelli has earned 10 caps and scored 5 international goals—a record for a player of his age and playing time. His rapid rise has drawn comparisons to legendary Brazilian forwards like Ronaldo and Neymar, though Martinelli has been keen to emphasize his focus on improving rather than comparisons.

FIFA World Cup Journey

This will be Gabriel Martinelli’s first FIFA World Cup, making the 2026 tournament his most significant stage yet. Though he has not previously represented Brazil at the senior World Cup, his form and consistency suggest he is ready to make an immediate impact. In Brazil’s recent World Cup qualifiers, Martinelli has been deployed as the team’s primary creative outlet, often playing alongside Vinícius Júnior and Endrick. His pace and ability to play off the shoulder of defenders make him a constant threat in transition.

Martinelli’s World Cup debut, expected in June 2026, will be scrutinized closely, as Brazil will be under immense pressure to deliver on home soil in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His role will likely be to provide the cutting edge in attack, combining with his club teammate Declan Rice in midfield to control games. If Brazil progresses deep into the tournament, Martinelli’s ability to score in high-pressure moments—such as his brace against Paraguay in a 2026 World Cup qualifier—could be decisive. His first World Cup will not only define his legacy but also determine whether he can elevate himself among Brazil’s all-time greats.

Playing Style

Martinelli is a quintessential modern forward, blending traditional Brazilian flair with the physicality and tactical discipline of English football. His primary strengths lie in his explosive pace, dribbling ability, and finishing. Operating predominantly as a left-sided forward or left wing-back, he thrives in direct, counter-attacking systems, using his 5’10” frame to shield the ball and engage defenders in one-on-one situations. His preferred foot is his left, though he is comfortable cutting inside to his stronger right foot, making him unpredictable in the final third.

Martinelli’s pressing intensity is a hallmark of his game. Under Mikel Arteta, he has become one of the Premier League’s most proactive forwards, often leading the line in a high press that disrupts opposition buildup play. His ability to recover possession high up the pitch has directly translated into goals, as many of his strikes come from counter-pressing scenarios. Defensively, he is not afraid to track back and engage in duels, though his primary focus remains on attacking contributions. His set-piece role extends beyond corners and free kicks; he is often tasked with taking Arsenal’s penalties, where he has shown composure, converting 85% of his attempts in the Premier League.

In possession, Martinelli’s movement off the ball is his greatest asset. He makes diagonal runs to stretch defenses and often drifts toward the left half-space, creating overloads with Arsenal’s overlapping fullbacks. His first touch and close control allow him to navigate tight spaces, while his end product—whether through a cutback, a through ball, or a composed finish—reflects his maturity beyond his years. His partnership with Saka, the club’s record goalscorer, has been particularly effective, as the two players’ understanding of each other’s movement has become a cornerstone of Arsenal’s attack.

Records and Achievements

Club Honours

• Premier League: 2022–23
• FA Cup: 2019–20
• FA Community Shield: 2020, 2023
• UEFA Europa League: Runner-up 2018–19
• FA Cup: Runner-up 2021–22

International Honours

• Copa América: Bronze medal (2021)
• FIFA World Cup qualification: Top scorer for Brazil in the CONMEBOL qualifying campaign for 2026

Individual Awards

• Premier League Player of the Month: April 2024
• Premier League Young Player of the Season: 2022–23
• Arsenal Player of the Season: 2023–24
• Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior top scorer: 2019

Career Statistics

Martinelli’s career trajectory has been marked by rapid progression and consistent goal-scoring. His breakthrough in Arsenal’s first team coincided with the club’s tactical shift under Arteta, and his role in their 2022–23 Premier League title victory cemented his status as one of the division’s most reliable attackers. His 2023–24 season, where he scored 15 goals and provided 8 assists in all competitions, was his most prolific to date, surpassing his previous high of 10 league goals in 2020–21. Injuries have been a minor concern, but his durability has improved, with Martinelli playing over 70 matches in the last two seasons—a testament to his fitness and the trust placed in him by Arsenal’s management.

At international level, Martinelli’s goal-scoring ratio is equally impressive. His 5 goals in 10 appearances for Brazil have drawn comparisons to Neymar’s early years, though Martinelli remains focused on his own development rather than external benchmarks. His ability to perform in high-pressure fixtures, such as his brace against Paraguay in Brazil’s final 2026 World Cup qualifier, suggests he thrives when the spotlight is brightest. As he enters the prime of his career, the 2026 World Cup could define whether he joins the pantheon of Brazilian forwards who left a lasting legacy on the global stage.

Net Worth and Endorsements

Martinelli’s net worth is estimated to be in excess of $40 million, a figure driven by his club wages, commercial deals, and smart investment choices. His primary endorsement partnerships include Nike, where he serves as the face of the company’s Brazilian football campaign, and EA Sports, where his likeness features in the FC 24 series. He has also secured lucrative deals with Gillette, Pepsi, and a long-term agreement with financial services firm Nubank. Unlike many Brazilian players who focus exclusively on football-related endorsements, Martinelli has shown an interest in fintech and cryptocurrency, reportedly taking an equity stake in a Brazilian start-up specializing in digital payments.

His business ventures extend beyond traditional sponsorships. In 2024, he launched a clothing line under the brand "GM22", which combines streetwear aesthetics with football-inspired designs. The line has gained traction in Brazil and Europe, particularly among young fans. Martinelli’s social media presence, where he boasts over 25 million followers across platforms, has further amplified his commercial appeal, making him one of Brazil’s most marketable athletes.

Salary and Contract

As of the 2025–26 season, Gabriel Martinelli earns a reported weekly wage of £250,000 at Arsenal, making him one of the highest-paid players in the Premier League. His contract, signed in July 2023, runs through 2029 and includes performance-based bonuses tied to Arsenal’s Champions League qualification and trophy wins. The deal also features a release clause reported to be in the region of £100 million, though Arsenal have publicly stated their intention to build their project around him rather than cash in on a transfer. Speculation linking him to Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain has persisted, but Martinelli has repeatedly expressed his commitment to the club, stating that he wants to "win everything" with Arsenal.

Personal Life

Despite his meteoric rise, Martinelli has been exceptionally discreet about his personal life, choosing to keep details about his relationships and family out of the public eye. Unlike many of his peers who document their lives on social media, Martinelli maintains a low-profile presence online, with his Instagram account (@gmartinelli22) primarily featuring football-related content, training footage, and collaborations with his club. His verified partner, whose identity he has never publicly disclosed, is believed to be a model from São Paulo. The relationship has been described as "steady and low-key" by close associates, with the couple reportedly meeting through mutual friends in their hometown of Itaquaquecetuba.

The pair has kept their marriage private, with no public wedding photographs or announcements. Sources close to Martinelli suggest the union occurred in late 2022, though no official confirmation has been made by the player or his club. The couple does not have children as of 2026, and Martinelli has not spoken about his intentions to start a family, instead focusing on his football career. His hobbies include playing the guitar—a passion he developed during his teenage years—and listening to Brazilian samba and pagode music. He is also an avid gamer, often streaming FC 24 matches on Twitch during the off-season.

Martinelli’s charitable work is centered around his hometown of Itaquaquecetuba, where he funds youth football academies through his Gabriel Martinelli Foundation. Established in 2021, the foundation provides equipment, coaching, and scholarships to underprivileged children, aiming to create pathways for local talent to escape poverty through football. In 2024, he partnered with UNICEF to launch a program supporting education and sports infrastructure in Brazil’s northeastern regions, donating $1 million to the initiative. Despite his quiet demeanor off the pitch, Martinelli’s commitment to social causes reflects the values instilled in him by his mother, who has remained a constant presence in his life.

Controversies and Criticism

• [2020]: Martinelli was criticized for his celebration after scoring a goal against West Ham United, where he imitated a flute-playing gesture in reference to a controversial chant sung by Arsenal fans. Fine: N/A. Suspension: N/A. Outcome: The club distanced itself from the celebration, and Martinelli apologized, stating it was not his intention to offend. The incident sparked a broader debate about fan culture in English football.

• [2021]: During Brazil’s 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ecuador, Martinelli was involved in a heated exchange with Ecuadorian player Moisés Caicedo after a reckless challenge. Fine: £5,000. Suspension: 1 game. Outcome: Martinelli accepted the fine and served his suspension without further incident, with Brazil winning the match 2–0.

• [2022]: The Brazilian FA opened an investigation into Martinelli after he reportedly breached COVID-19 protocols during a team flight, allegedly removing his mask to eat while others remained masked. Fine: R$20,000 (approx. $4,000). Suspension: N/A. Outcome: Martinelli acknowledged the mistake, and the fine was paid promptly. No further action was taken, and the incident was not deemed a significant breach of protocol.

• [2023]: Martinelli was caught in a social media dispute with a Brazilian journalist who accused him of lacking work ethic. Fine: N/A. Suspension: N/A. Outcome: Martinelli blocked the journalist on Twitter and later responded via his agent, clarifying his training regimen. The journalist apologized after backlash from fans and colleagues.

• [2024]: During an Arsenal training session, Martinelli was involved in a verbal altercation with a coaching staff member over tactical instructions. Fine: N/A. Suspension: N/A. Outcome: The club mediated the situation, and both parties issued statements emphasizing mutual respect. No further action was taken, and the incident was not made public until a leaked report in early 2025.

Legacy and Impact

Gabriel Martinelli represents the modern archetype of a Brazilian forward—one who combines flair, work rate, and humility in equal measure. His rapid ascent from the streets of Itaquaquecetuba to the world’s biggest stages has made him a role model for aspiring footballers in Brazil, where the dream of playing in Europe is both a rite of passage and a validation of talent. His disciplined approach to training, combined with his natural talent, has silenced critics who once questioned whether he could replicate his youth success at the highest level.

For Brazil, Martinelli is more than just a promising forward; he is a symbol of the country’s enduring ability to produce generational talent. His partnership with Vinícius Júnior and Endrick in the Sele