It took two games for Gabriel Martinelli to prove he's "North London Forever"

“North London Forever” – a phrase that captures the deep, emotional bond shared by a player, fans and Arsenal FC alike, sometimes even years after the player has left N5.

For Gabriel Martinelli, just a few days have passed since he moved to Al-Hilal in a £60m switch yet it is already clear his heart will leave us never.

He showed his Arsenal affection earlier this week when preparing for his second Saudi Pro League tie against Neom. Before kick-off, the Brazilian met fellow ex-Gunner, Alexandre Lacazette, in the tunnel and the pair shared a warm embrace.

It marked their first encounter for four years as Lacazette left Arsenal in June 2022 upon the expiry of his contract.   

Gabriel Martinelli proved his Arsenal bonds will stay with him as he hugged Alexandre Lacazette before their recent Saudi Pro League clash

But there was no love lost on the pitch. Despite fielding a new-look attack of Martinelli, Ollie Watkins and Crysencio Summerville, leaders Al-Hilal failed to score and fell to a shock 0-2 home loss, the first game they have lost in 47 consecutive league matches dating back to April 2025 (a 3-1 defeat versus Al-Nassr).

It was also a first league defeat for former Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi since he took over in June 2025; the benchmark of 49, 49 undefeated will, sadly, remain out of his reach for another LONG while yet.

Far from the start Martinelli wanted, too. However, these are early days in his Saudi venture and a shot at redemption awaits on Saturday when Al-Hilal travel to Al-Taawoun, who are still yet to win after five games this season.   

And regardless of the on-field action, it is lovely to see two former Gunners reunite at this new stage in their respective careers. It offers a flashback to the earlier days of Mikel Arteta’s process as both of them were already at the club when the Spaniard was first appointed; everything at Arsenal has come along so much since then.

Their hug proves that if you are once a Gunner, you are always a Gunner. The self-titled “adopted Hale End boy” will forever remain in Arsenal hearts.  

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow