Tonight, in Belgium, Gabriel Martinelli stands ready to write a new chapter in Arsenal’s European history.
The electrifying Brazilian winger, aged 24, has scored in his last four consecutive UEFA Champions League appearances, and a goal against Club Brugge would make him the first player ever to achieve five straight goals for the Gunners in the competition.
This record-breaking pursuit highlights Martinelli's extraordinary "UCL affinity"—an enjoyment of European football that has seen him thrive even as his form domestically has fluctuated.
The Current Streak: Consistency in Europe
Martinelli’s current streak of four consecutive goals has already matched the best run by any Arsenal player in the modern era (a record he currently shares with his teammate, the returning Gabriel Jesus, who achieved the feat in the 2023/24 season).
Martinelli's run includes crucial strikes against:
Athletic Club
Olympiacos
Atlético de Madrid
Bayern Munich
The consistency of his goal-scoring, particularly against elite defensive units like Atlético and Bayern,
demonstrates his ability to rise to the occasion when the lights are brightest.
Why Martinelli Thrives in the UCL
When asked about his incredible form in Europe, Martinelli himself offered a fascinating tactical insight into why he finds the Champions League easier to score in than the Premier League:
"I think in the Champions League, sometimes it's a bit more open, the game. Everyone just wants to attack and have loads of space sometimes. In the Premier League, it's a bit more tricky to score and to have more space."
His explanation points to his speed and directness. When opponents are forced to attack and the spaces open up, Martinelli is lethal. The structured, often low-block defenses of the Premier League force him into tighter areas, which can stifle his most effective tools.
The Pressure to Deliver
While Martinelli insists he is "not too bothered" about the individual record, the pressure is on him to deliver goals tonight.
Club Ambition: Arsenal needs a victory to consolidate the top spot in the League Phase and secure an easier draw for the knockout rounds.
The Bench Factor: With the surprise return of Gabriel Jesus to the squad after a long-term injury, the competition for places in Arsenal’s front three is about to intensify dramatically. Setting a club record now would serve as a powerful statement to Mikel Arteta that he remains indispensable in the biggest games.
Should Martinelli find the net tonight, he will cement his status as a key European performer and add another spectacular achievement to his rapidly growing legacy at the Emirates.
Do you predict Gabriel Martinelli will score against Club Brugge to break the Arsenal UCL record tonight?