How Gabriel Martinelli’s partner predicted his Man City equaliser

A heartwarming WhatsApp exchange between Gabriel Martinelli and his partner proved remarkably prophetic as the Arsenal forward delivered a crucial 93rd-minute equaliser against Manchester City.

Gabriel Martinelli’s fiancée Isabella Rousso proved to have extraordinary foresight when she accurately predicted her partner’s match-winning impact against Manchester City on Sunday. After the Brazilian winger informed her that he wouldn’t be starting against Pep Guardiola’s side, Rousso’s response was prophetic: “Go get the tired guys in the 2nd half and score a goal, you’ll see.”

Her prediction materialised in the most dramatic fashion possible. Martinelli entered the game as an 80th-minute substitute, replacing Jurrien Timber in what appeared to be another attacking gamble from Mikel Arteta. With Arsenal trailing 1-0 to Erling Haaland’s ninth-minute opener, the Emirates Stadium atmosphere had grown increasingly tense as the clock ticked towards full time.

The moment that vindicated Rousso’s prediction arrived in the 93rd minute, as fellow substitute Eberechi Eze, who had been instrumental in Arsenal’s second-half revival, delivered a perfectly weighted pass over Manchester City’s defensive line. Martinelli’s run was precisely timed, and a delicate chip over goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma sparked celebrations throughout the Emirates.

Last Tuesday, the winger scored another one-on-one and assisted as a substitute in the Gunners’ 2-0 victory over Athletic Club in the Champions League, with Mikel Arteta seemingly hoping for the same impact.

The Brazilian has now developed a reputation for contributing against Manchester City, having been directly involved in four goals against Guardiola’s side, including a late winner at home in 2023.

The dramatic equaliser extended Arsenal’s impressive record against their title rivals. Mikel Arteta became the first manager to avoid defeat in five consecutive league games against Guardiola, with Arsenal winning twice and drawing three times across their last five Premier League meetings with Manchester City.

Manchester City held an uncharacteristic defensive approach, as the Blues recorded their lowest possession share under the Spanish manager at 32.8%, and made numerous defensive substitutions ahead of the equaliser.

Arsenal’s ability to rescue a point keeps them within touching distance of early Premier League leaders Liverpool, who maintain a five-point advantage after five matches. The Gunners will next face Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Saturday, where Martinelli will be hoping to continue his impressive form.