Arsenal attacker Gabriel Martinelli recently named Cristiano Ronaldo as his idol while growing up. The Brazilian youngster has established himself as one of the top players in the Premier League this season.
Martinelli has been superb for the Gunners this season that are placed second in the Premier League standings. The 21-year-old has scored 15 goals and has provided six assists in 45 Premier League matches this season.
Recently speaking to the club's media, the player named Ronaldo as the one whom he idolized while growing up. He said:
“If you were talking about footballers, the person I looked up to was always Cristiano Ronaldo. I used to watch him a lot when I was growing up, I loved his style, but in life, my main inspirations for sure are my parents. Back when I was young and still now, they are always there for me."
Ronaldo has been one of the best players to ever grace the Premier League. He has inspired many players across the globe throughout his career. It shouldn't come as a surprise that Martinelli is also an admirer of the Portuguese legend.
Cristiano Ronaldo claimed that he wanted to see Arsenal win the Premier League this season
Despite leading the Premier League title race for the majority of the season, the Gunners have fallen behind Manchester City at this point. Cristiano Ronaldo, however, claimed that he hoped that the north Londoners win the title if Manchester United didn't.
Speaking to British broadcaster Piers Morgan in his now infamous interview, the Portuguese superstar made this claim. He said in November (via Sport BIBLE):
“I hope so. Manchester first, and if not, Arsenal is some team that I like to see play. I like the team. I like the coach. I think they have a good team. And if Manchester United don’t win the Premier League, I will be happy if Arsenal do.”
Despite Ronaldo's wish, it would take some dramatic turn of events for Arsenal to win the league this season. Manchester City lead Mikel Arteta's team by a point, having played one game less.