According to Football London, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was very angry with young Marquinhos last night during the Gunners’ 3-0 win over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.
The Brazilian, who moved to the red side of North London for £3 million in the summer (Goal), starred against FC Zurich in Arsenal’s opening game of this season’s Europa League. He picked up a goal and an assist in Switzerland, but he wasn’t quite as impressive at the Emirates last night.
Angry Arteta ‘went mad’ at Arsenal youngster Marquinhos vs Bodo/Glimt
Marquinhos didn’t have the best of starts to the game last night. The youngster was sloppy with a couple of his passes early on, and it seemed like he didn’t quite have the confidence to take players on when he got the ball.
Towards the end of what was a disappointing half, Marquinhos got on Arteta’s nerve.
Fabio Vieira picked up the ball on the touchline right in front of the Arsenal boss and he was closed down quickly. The obvious pass for the Portuguese midfielder was to Marquinhos, but the 19-year just stood there, without offering himself as an option.
Vieira had no way out and he conceded a throw-in.
Arteta, who was very close to the action, reportedly ‘went mad’ at the situation. He apparently shouted at Marquinhos, demanding him to be more alert in such situations.
The youngster came out for the second half, but he barely lasted 14 minutes. He was replaced by Bukayo Saka in the 59th minute.
Our View:
It definitely was a night to forget for young Marquinhos from a personal point of view. He just couldn’t get going, but there’s absolutely nothing to be worried about.
The Brazilian is still only 19 years old. This is his first season away from his home country and there will definitely be ups and downs in the coming weeks and months.
Marquinhos has to ignore all the noise and put in the work. He definitely has the potential to become a top player, but that will not happen overnight. He’ll have to stay patient and learn from the players around him.
Arsenal face Bodo/Glimt again next week and it will be interesting to see if Arteta will start Marquinhos again.