Former Manchester United defender, Danny Simpson, has cast doubts on Arsenal’s Premier League title chances if Gabriel Martinelli continues as a regular starter under Mikel Arteta.

Martinelli, who joined the Gunners in 2019, has struggled to meet high expectations despite managing 16 goal contributions across all competitions last season.

Speaking on the Beyond the Four podcast, Simpson praised Martinelli’s direct style but insisted Arsenal need more quality in that position to get over the line in the title race finally.

“I’ve been saying for the last two years, I love him as a player, he’s direct, Martinelli, but I just don’t think they will win the league with just him out there. Now obviously Eze – top, top, top player,” Simpson said.

Arsenal have finished runners-up in the Premier League three times in five seasons under Arteta, narrowly missing out again last year as Liverpool claimed the title.

Interestingly, Martinelli was left on the bench throughout Arsenal’s 5-0 thrashing of Leeds United, after featuring for 60 minutes in their opening clash against Manchester United.

As the new season unfolds, all eyes will be on Arteta’s tactical decisions — and whether Martinelli can silence his critics or risk losing his starting spot.