“One of the best players in the world” - Gabriel Martinelli heaps praises on ‘unbelievable’ Arsenal teammate following standout display vs Southampton

Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli has heaped praise on his teammate Bukayo Saka, calling him “one of the best players in the world.” The England international has had a blazing start to the season, with two goals and seven assists in seven league games so far.

The Gunners were certainly pushed hard against Southampton on Saturday, and after a quiet first half, Cameron Archer put the Saints ahead in the 55th minute. It was Saka who sparked Arsenal’s comeback, winning the ball in a dangerous position just three minutes later and setting up Kai Havertz, who netted his fourth goal of the league season to level the proceedings.

Saka provided another assist, this time to Martinelli, with his trademark cross to the far post, allowing the Brazilian to tap in and give Arsenal the lead in the 68th minute. He then capped off his impressive performance with a well-taken goal in the 88th minute to ultimately seal the victory.

Martinelli came on as a substitute and made a significant impact himself, but the Brazilian reserved praise for Saka, noting that he is embracing the captaincy role in Martin Odegaard’s absence.

“He’s unbelievable, and one of the best players in the world right now. He’s a really nice guy as well so we’re really happy to have him here as one of the captains. It was an unbelievable ball from Bukayo and I was there to score. It was a really good moment for me and a nice goal," Martinelli said (via football 365).

Arsenal have had some rocky periods in games this season, but they have been in fine form and remain one of only two unbeaten teams in the Premier League. With 17 points from seven matches, they currently sit third in the table, just one point behind Liverpool and level on points with Manchester City, trailing only on goal difference.

Mikel Arteta believes Bukayo Saka is a match-winner for Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has played a crucial role in Bukayo Saka’s development. Still only 23, Saka has already scored 61 goals and provided 60 assists in 236 games for the Gunners. He has now taken on the added responsibility of captaincy and has led from the front in several matches.

Arteta believes that Saka is a player who can single-handedly decide games and feels that he has earned the captaincy through his consistent displays for Arsenal.

"That’s the maturity and steps players have to do. He’s been in the team long enough to earn the right to have that role. He believes in that. He has the capacity to change and decide games like many other players. If we want to be at the top, sometimes players have to create those moments and he’s certainly done that again today," Arteta said (via football.london).

After the international break, the Gunners will travel south to face Bournemouth, before returning to the Emirates Stadium for a Champions League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk. They will then face Liverpool in a crucial top-of-the-table clash at the Emirates.