Martinelli's agent explains winger's decision to reject Premier League for Al-Hilal

Gabriel Martinelli departed Arsenal in early September, ending a seven-year stint in England. Manager Mikel Arteta informed the 25-year-old that he no longer featured in his first-team plans for the campaign, leading to a permanent exit.

The deal brought a significant financial windfall to the Gunners, with a guaranteed £60 million fee making it the club's largest-ever sale. The Brazilian also secured a lucrative contract, substantially increasing his wages from his previous £180,000-a-week earnings.

Arsenal underwent a massive restructuring and, last year, they won the Premier League. We felt it was time for him to move on, and the club had also seen it that way. It was a very good departure for him and for Arsenal. Marcos Casseb

Agent Marcos Casseb confirmed that Martinelli was not short of interest from across Europe, including approaches from unnamed Premier League clubs, as well as sides from Italy and Germany. Ultimately, the player opted for a fresh start in Asia with Al-Hilal.

Casseb highlighted that the move aligns with a shift in Middle Eastern recruitment, which is increasingly targeting younger, high-profile talent. Martinelli now faces the challenge of establishing himself as a central figure in Al-Hilal's ambitious project, which features several international stars under the age of 27.