Arsenal Omit Jesus and Martinelli for Opener Ahead of Serie A Bids
Arsenal left Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus out of the squad for the Premier League opener against Coventry City on August 21, 2026. Both attackers face potential moves to Serie A before the transfer window closes, with talks currently at an early stage.
Inter and Napoli are the two primary suitors working to set up moves for the Arsenal pair.
Arsenal
clubArsenal Omit Forward Duo Against Coventry City
Neither Martinelli nor Jesus was included in the matchday group for Arsenal’s first league game of the season against Coventry City. The decision to keep both players out comes directly alongside growing interest from Italy.
Attacking Rotation and Squad Competition at Emirates Stadium
Leaving both forwards out of the opening fixture leaves manager Mikel Arteta with fewer options on the wings and up front. Their absence opens up immediate minutes for other attackers in the squad while the club manages potential exits.
Gabriel Jesus
playerItalian Clubs Need Squad Sales to Raise Transfer Funds
Inter and Napoli must offload existing squad members before submitting firm transfer bids. Inter need to generate funds by selling striker Ange-Yoan Bonny for €40m, alongside a potential exit for Luis Henrique, after agency Roc Nation offered Martinelli to the club. Napoli hold Gabriel Jesus as a top target but must sell either Noa Lang or Lorenzo Lucca, who has drawn interest from Trabzonspor, before making an official offer.
Corriere dello Sport and Tuttosport.