Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has lauded Gabriel Martinelli's mental strength after the Brazilian forward answered his critics in emphatic fashion, netting a hat-trick in Arsenal's FA Cup third-round victory over Portsmouth.
From controversy to celebration
The stunning treble at Fratton Park on Saturday came just three days after Martinelli found himself at the centre of a storm. During Arsenal's goalless Premier League draw with Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium, the winger attempted to pull injured Reds defender Conor Bradley off the pitch, an action that drew significant backlash from fans and pundits alike.
Martinelli subsequently issued a public apology, insisting he had not realised the full extent of Bradley's injury. Liverpool manager Arne Slot later defended the Arsenal player's intentions, a gesture appreciated by Arteta.
Arteta's praise for mental fortitude
Speaking after the 3-0 win at Portsmouth, Arteta singled out Martinelli's character. "That's why to play for a big club, you need a big personality," the Gunners boss stated. He emphasised how a player can face criticism one moment but must be ready to perform again shortly after.
"It can be an action that you miss, it can be something that costs you a game. And three days later, there is a game. So you need to lift yourself up and make it count," Arteta explained. He expressed his admiration for Martinelli's ability to "come in and talk on the pitch," which he described as the player's best quality.
A unique hat-trick and team news
Martinelli's first-ever Arsenal hat-trick was notably unusual, with two of his three goals coming from headers at near-post corners, underscoring the team's reputation as set-piece specialists. Arteta revealed the forward had confidently predicted he would score from a set-piece in training the day before the match.
In other team news, Kai Havertz made a welcome return from injury as a second-half substitute. However, concern surrounds defender Piero Hincapie, who limped off against Liverpool. Arteta said the club expects to learn more about the severity of Hincapie's injury on Monday.
The victory secures Arsenal's place in the FA Cup fourth round draw, providing a perfect response to the midweek frustration and showcasing the resilience Arteta values so highly in his squad.
