Gabriel Martinelli says Arsenal star is ‘irreplaceable’ after Brentford win
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Gabriel Martinelli described Bukayo Saka as ‘irreplaceable’ after Arsenal’s Premier League victory over Brentford. Saka was absent as Arsenal came from behind to beat Brentford on New Year’s Day and is set to miss plenty more games over the coming weeks and months.
![[Brentford FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GettyImages-2192053173.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
The England star pulled up during Arsenal’s victory over Crystal Palace just before Christmas and the hamstring injury required surgery, meaning he could be out until March. Saka’s absence represents a huge blow to Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes but the Gunners kept the pressure on leaders Liverpool with a well-deserved win at Brentford.
![[Crystal Palace FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GettyImages-2190996455.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
Bryan Mbeumo put the hosts in front against the run of play but Arsenal were level before half-time thanks to Gabriel Jesus’ sixth goal in four games. Arsenal scored twice in three second-half minutes shortly after the interval, Mikel Merino turning in a goalmouth bundle from a corner before Martinellismashed home after Brentford failed to deal with Ethan Nwaneri’s cross.
![[Brentford FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GettyImages-2192055693.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
Asked whether he and Arsenal’s other attacking players felt more pressure to replace the injured Saka, Martinelli told TNT Sports: ‘No-one can replace him, he’s one of the best players in the world. ‘But we know the team we have, we trust ourselves and we will try our best. I’m sure he is happy with the result.’.
Jesus, meanwhile, praised Arsenal’s performance at the Gtech Community Stadium as they ensured Brentford’s winless run now stands at five games. ‘I think the team did great today,’ said Jesus. ‘To come here and play the way we played is amazing.
