The management of Brazilian players at Arsenal and Tottenham is under fire following the departures of Richarlison, Gabriel Jesus, and Martinelli.
Arsenal and Tottenham have faced criticism for how they handled the departures of three Brazilian players who had significant stints at both clubs: Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Richarlison. The way these athletes’ futures were determined raises questions about the respect shown for their careers and contributions.
The Richarlison Case: Exposure and Controversial Decision
The most recent and emblematic situation involves Richarlison. After expressing his desire to leave Tottenham during preseason, the forward felt exposed by public statements from coach Roberto De Zerbi, who reportedly mentioned uncertainty about his stay. The player, who in previous seasons had rejected offers to remain and was decisive in the fight against relegation from the Premier League, saw his uncertain future decided in a less than transparent manner.
After rejecting offers and not being cleared for a loan to Vasco, Tottenham chose not to register Richarlison for the English Championship and kept him with the Under-21 team, intending to wait for the January transfer window. This decision generated dissatisfaction, and the forward, according to information from “ge,” is seeking to terminate his contract through legal means.
Leonardo Jardim stated:
“Richarlison decided everything on his own. He spoke with me at the beginning of preseason, told me his idea, his desire, was to leave; I can’t say anything because I haven’t decided anything. Richarlison’s message from the beginning of preseason was very clear, and I accepted it. I know there was an offer before the transfer window closed (from Everton), but he didn’t accept that offer. For me, nothing changes.”
Martinelli and Jesus: Awkward Situations at Arsenal
At Arsenal, the cases of Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus follow a similar pattern of lack of communication and unilateral decisions. Martinelli, after seven years of connection with the club, was sidelined from the squad for the 2026/27 season, without even being informed in advance about the club’s plans. His sale to Al-Hilal occurred without him even being able to celebrate the Community Shield victory with his teammates.
Gabriel Jesus‘ situation was also marked by surprise. In an interview with “SportyTV,” the forward reported being suddenly informed about training separately from the main squad, without any prior notice. Jesus‘ signing in 2022, from Manchester City, was seen as a milestone for Arsenal in their pursuit of titles, and his contribution, even with injuries, was relevant to the team’s rebuilding.
The way these three Brazilian players, who dedicated their talent and effort to the London clubs, had their departures managed generates a debate about ethics and respect in sports management. The end of a cycle, for athletes who contributed so much, should be marked by dignity and transparency, something that, in this case, seems to have been lacking. The expectation now rests on the next chapters of this saga, both for the athletes and for the image of the clubs involved.
