Mikel Arteta 'Very Surprised' by Criticism Following Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli Exits

Mikel Arteta responded to claims from Gabriel Jesus that he was forced to train away from the first team before a €15 million move to Barcelona.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta stated on Friday he is "very surprised" by criticism regarding the summer departures of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli. Jesus, who joined Barcelona in a €15 million ($17m) transfer, claimed he was not given an explanation for being asked to train away from the senior squad prior to his exit. Arteta countered this by noting he held an individual discussion with the forward in the dressing room centered on gratitude.

Former Gunners striker Ian Wright also questioned the handling of Gabriel Martinelli, who was excluded from early-season matchday squads before completing a £60 million ($81m) move to Al Hilal. Arteta acknowledged the necessity of delivering difficult news, comparing the situation to Leandro Trossard’s €18 million ($21m) move to Besiktas. Trossard recently returned to Emirates Stadium to visit the team during a 2-1 victory over Chelsea last Sunday.

Arsenal travels to Sunderland on Saturday night seeking to maintain a perfect start to the season. The squad follows a midweek Champions League victory at Napoli, where Ben White was seen limping; however, Arteta confirmed the defender is "fine." The club is currently assessing Cristhian Mosquera as he attempts to recover from a muscular injury.