Ian Wright has criticised Arsenal’s handling of Gabriel Martinelli’s possible departure, saying the winger deserves greater respect and clarity about his future. The comments matter because Martinelli has been a regular and popular player during Arsenal’s recent success, yet has been left out of key matchday squads as the club considers selling him.

The 25-year-old made 53 appearances and scored 11 goals as Arsenal won the Premier League last season, taking his overall record to 62 goals in 278 games. Arsenal deny freezing him out, citing competition for places after Christos Tzolis impressed on the left wing, but they want at least one major sale before the transfer deadline and regard Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Fabio Vieira as possible departures; Martinelli has reportedly rejected Galatasaray and would prefer a leading European club.