Agent explains why Martinelli chose Al-Hilal over Europe | OneFootball

Gabriel Martinelli left Arsenal for Al-Hilal after rejecting interest from Europe, with his agent outlining why the forward chose a fresh start.

Marcos Kasp told Goal.com: "There were offers from Italian and German clubs and others from the English Premier League, but it was a moment in which he felt the need to change the scenery and clear his mind."

"Al-Hilal is the biggest club in Asia, and there is an ambitious project. We see a new direction in Saudi football that aims to reduce the average age of players in the league and attract younger talents."

Martinelli, 25, completed his move in early September 2026 after Mikel Arteta told him he no longer figured in Arsenal’s first-team plans for this season. The feeling was mutual, and he leaves after seven years.

Arsenal banked 60 million pounds sterling in guaranteed fees, and Martinelli’s Riyadh contract comfortably exceeds his previous 180,000 pounds sterling a week in north London, according to the agent. Kasp called it "the biggest sale in Arsenal's history", adding that the exit suits both parties financially and on the pitch.

Source: Goal.com

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