Gabriel Martinelli just sent a crystal clear message to Mikel Arteta at the World Cup

Gabriel Martinelli came on for Brazil and primarily played through the left channel. However, the clutch moment that kept Brazil in the World Cup came from some centre-forward instincts from Martinelli.

Gabriel Martinelli received the ball from Bruno Guimaraes (yes, that Bruno Guimaraes) and slotted home in the far corner with his signature finish. Martinelli found some space in the box, which is a trait you wouldn't expect from him, and converted quickly, a trait that you would expect from him.

Mikel Arteta can legitimately consider Gabriel Martinelli at centre-forward

Mikel Arteta knows one thing about Gabriel Martinelli now: he is one step away from being a legitimate option at centre-forward. It's not a completely new position, since Martinelli has played there for Arsenal in the past.

He is not an out-and-out striker, but Arsenal have Viktor Gyokeres for that. He is not a link-up player, but Arsenal have Kai Havertz for that.

If they need a striker who can operate in tight spaces and slot home when the box is crowded, then they now have Gabriel Martinelli as a plan C.

Of course, Martinelli's best position remains on the left-wing. However, after watching the moment that Martinelli came up with yesterday, Arteta would be foolish to not play on that slightly.

Big positional changes do not come from moments, but if he's done it before, he can do it again.

Martinelli is the closest thing Arsenal have to Thierry Henry when it comes to that signature finish. Receiving the ball, leaning in the opposite direction, and curling it into the far post. Of course, Martinelli couldn't lace Henry's boots yet, but it's at least a nice nostalgic trait to have.

Gabriel Martinelli is still good enough to play for Arsenal

There is a genuine risk that Arsenal could part ways with Martinelli this summer. The reason is that the left-wing position at Arsenal is considered the weakest, and the immediate point of call if the Gunners are to strengthen.

Given the choice, though, you'd feel that Martinelli would prefer to stay at Arsenal. He loves the club, and he's one of the longest-serving players in the squad right now.

Martinelli is good enough to play for Arsenal. Whether or not he's good enough to start for Arsenal is a different story.

However, if Arteta proved anything last season, it's that the squad is just as important as the starting lineup. If players like Martinelli are content with coming off the bench and making an impact, then he is an easy choice to keep at the club.

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