Arsenal star set to push for exit if premier league glory arrives

Arsenal stand on the brink of ending a two-decade wait for a Premier League title, but the celebrations could be overshadowed by a major departure. According to former Gunners defender Mikaël Silvestre, one of the club’s most decorated and longest-serving players may be considering his future this summer, seeing the current season as the perfect moment to step away.

Could a Premier League triumph trigger a summer exodus?

With just two matches remaining, Arsenal hold a commanding lead at the top of the table, needing only a point from their final games against Burnley and Crystal Palace to secure their first league title since 2004. Should they achieve this historic milestone, the club’s hierarchy may look to refresh the squad under Mikel Arteta, who could become only the second manager in Arsenal’s modern era—after Arsène Wenger—to lift the trophy.

Manchester City, currently second and two points adrift, face a challenging conclusion to their campaign, with tough fixtures against Bournemouth and Aston Villa still to come. Regardless of whether Arsenal claim both the Premier League and Champions League—potentially in a final against Paris Saint-Germain—their backroom team will likely pursue reinforcements this summer.

Martinelli’s reduced role sparks transfer speculation

The potential shake-up may extend beyond managerial changes. Silvestre suggests that Gabriel Martinelli, Arsenal’s longest-serving player with nearly 300 appearances since his 2019 debut, could be a prime candidate for a move. The Brazilian international, who has racked up over 100 matches in the past two seasons, has seen his playing time dwindle this campaign, making only ten Premier League starts.

The irregularity of his game time—despite his 22 international caps—could push the 24-year-old to seek a fresh challenge elsewhere. With Leandro Trossard currently favored ahead of him in the pecking order, Martinelli may view the upcoming transfer window as an opportune moment to secure regular football elsewhere.

Silvestre’s take on Martinelli’s situation

« Gabriel Martinelli may push for a move due to his limited minutes, » Silvestre explained. « He’s an international player who wants to play regularly, and right now, Trossard is ahead of him. Leaving after winning the league would be the ideal scenario for him, but he’ll need to find the right club. Arsenal would then require a replacement, though I don’t see an immediate need elsewhere in the squad. »

Potential reinforcements on the horizon

Arsenal have been linked with Bradley Barcola, the dynamic winger from Paris Saint-Germain, as a potential successor if Martinelli departs. The 21-year-old French talent has drawn attention for his explosive dribbling, creativity, and ability to unlock defenses, though Silvestre believes he still has room for improvement in finishing.

« Barcola could compete with Trossard if Martinelli leaves, » Silvestre noted. « He’s not yet a consistent starter in the Champions League, but his strengths are evident—strong in duels, space creation, and key passes. With refinement, he could become a complete player. »