Why Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli didn't join Manchester United after trials

12.10.2022 - 12:27 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk

Just nine games into the season, Manchester United’s title rivals of the past Arsenal have got off to an electrifying start, winning an impressive eight out of their first nine games. The weekend’s victory over Liverpool seemed like a checkpoint in the club’s progression under manager Mikel Arteta, overcoming the mental block of facing Liverpool that has resulted in poor results across the last few years. This resulted in many now believing that the Gunners will be among those at the top of the table come May, while also shining the spotlight upon the eye-catching development of numerous young players in the ranks.

One of those was man of the match Gabriel Martinelli. Having completed the most dribbles in the Premier League this season, the Brazilian looks to have taken a big leap from last season in terms of production and overall play. In a climate where clubs are paying huge money for wingers, paying just £6 million for one that competes with the best of them is the sort of transfer business that can transform a club from Europa League qualification spots to title contenders. However, it could’ve been all so different for the forward from Ituano.

During 2015 a slight teenager hailing from Sao Paulo by the name of Gabi walked out onto the Trafford Training Centre pitch, better known as Carrington, to partake in a training session with United. There was excitement ringing around the club about a talented Brazilian being present and intrigue about the level of talent that would be displayed.

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It was unusual for South American players to arrive at Carrington due to the strict work permit rules at the time making it near impossible to sign teenage prospects from the