Gabriel Martinelli made his highly anticipated debut for Al-Hilal just a day after finalizing his transfer from Arsenal, stepping onto the pitch in a Riyadh derby against Al-Shabab. The match, held at the SHG Arena, concluded with Al-Hilal securing a solid 2-0 victory, showcasing the team's strong performance in the Saudi Pro League.
Martinelli entered the match in the 68th minute, replacing Sultan Mandash while Al-Hilal was already ahead. During his time on the field, the former Arsenal winger completed three of five attempted passes and registered one shot that was blocked, indicating his eagerness to contribute to his new team.
The scoring for Al-Hilal began in the second half when Sergej Milinkovic-Savic found the net in the 53rd minute, following a well-placed pullback from Mohammed Mahzari. Ruben Neves later sealed the victory with a penalty kick late in the game, further solidifying Al-Hilal's dominance in the match.
After the game, Martinelli expressed his satisfaction with the win and acknowledged the challenges that come with transitioning to a new environment. He stated, "I am very happy with the win, and of course I need some time to adapt, in a new country, new surroundings, and with a new team and new team-mates." His comments reflect the common sentiment among players who move to different leagues, emphasizing the importance of acclimatization.
Martinelli's transfer to Al-Hilal was officially announced on September 3, marking the end of his tenure with Arsenal, where he made significant contributions over several seasons. The deal, valued at a guaranteed £60 million, also includes a sell-on clause for the London club, demonstrating Arsenal's strategic approach to player transfers.
Having signed a four-year contract with Al-Hilal, Martinelli is now embarking on a new chapter in his career, one that he describes as exciting for both himself and his family. He remarked, "I am happy to be here. This is a new chapter in my life and my family’s life. Everyone here is happy, and I am extremely excited." His enthusiasm suggests a positive outlook as he integrates into the squad and adapts to the competitive landscape of the Saudi Pro League.
As Al-Hilal continues to perform well in the league, Martinelli's contributions will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike. His ability to adjust quickly will be crucial for the team's aspirations this season, as they aim to maintain their position at the top of the table.
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