Gabriel Martinelli joined Gabriel Jesus in receiving a call-up for the Brazil squad on Monday, and team manager Tite explained why.

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 18: Gabriel Martinelli during the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Arsenal FC at Brentford Community Stadium on September 18, 2022 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
BRENTFORD, ENGLAND: Gabriel Martinelli during the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Arsenal FC at Brentford Community Stadium on September 18, 2022. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Brazil announced their squad for the World Cup on Monday, with two Arsenal inclusions – Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus.

Jesus has been a regular with the Brazil squad in the past, so it was no real surprise to see him involved. But Martinelli was more on the fringes of the squad, so his inclusion certainly couldn’t be taken for granted.

Fortunately, the 21-year-old made it in, and Brazil boss Tite explained why he picked the winger.

“He’s been one of the highlights at Arsenal, at the top of the Premier League,” Tite said. “A player of individual plays, of transitions in speed. [A player] who was with us in two call-ups, who’s been maintaining this high level.

“Choosing an athlete within the characteristics of the team, we need sharp players on the sides. Incisive players on the sides.

“That’s how the team came together, having these players, which is the case with Martinelli as well.”

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 06: Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal during the UEFA Europa League group A match between Arsenal FC and FK Bodo/Glimt at Emirates Stadium on October 06, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND: Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal during the UEFA Europa League group A match between Arsenal FC and FK Bodo/Glimt at Emirates Stadium on October 06, 2022. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

It wasn’t all good news for Arsenal players with the Brazil squad, as Gabriel Magalhaes missed out. Marquinhos also wasn’t involved, but the 19-year-old still has a long way to go to reach the Brazil first team.

Gabriel’s chances were probably hurt by the fact he’s still yet to make his senior debut with Brazil. Even though he’s performing well for a club at the top of the Premier League, his international experience is next to none.

Still, it was frustrating to see Brazil call up a squad of entirely right-footed defenders when Gabriel was available as an alternative.

But for Arsenal fans, at least they know Gabriel will get a bit of a rest. The 24-year-old has played more minutes than anyone else in Mikel Arteta’s squad this season, and he’s a key starter for the Gunners.