David Luiz Hails Martinelli’s Mentality
Arsenal center-back David Luiz has lauded the mentality of his compatriot Gabriel Martinelli after the teenager’s impressive start to his career at the Emirates Stadium.
The 18-year-old joined Arsenal in the summer from Ituano, a team playing in the Brazilian third tier, and he has already scored seven goals in just nine matches in all competitions, including a brace in Arsenal’s 5-5 draw against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup.
Luiz joined the Gunners in a shocking transfer deadline day move from Chelsea for a fee around £8 million.
The former Paris Saint-Germain defender was asked to name his best young player in the current Arsenal setup, with the likes of Joe Willock and Bukayo Saka coming through the ranks, but the 32-year old was coy and rather chose to name the one with the best mentality.
“I’m not going to say who is the best talent, but the best mentality at the moment is Martinelli," Luiz told 90min.com.
"He has a great mentality, it is special, he is a top guy, a top player, but what really impresses me is his mentality on the training ground, and the way he reacts to scoring goals, like at Anfield, and how he continues to work with a great mentality.
“He is taking his opportunity step by step and he has the same focus, determination and respect for everything and he is so mature for his age.”
Martinelli is currently on international duty with the under-23 team of Brazil
