Darren Bent believes a certain Arsenal player has not helped his own cause ahead of their match against Manchester City.

Gabriel Martinelli, the young Brazilian striker for Arsenal, had a tough game against Atalanta on Thursday. He missed a great opportunity to score, leaving fans and pundits alike disappointed. Darren Bent, a former Premier League player, believes that Martinelli's spot in the starting lineup is the only one in danger for their upcoming match against Manchester City.

In the Champions League game, Martinelli failed to break his 17-game goal drought for Arsenal, which also includes a lack of assists. With their focus now on their crucial match against City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, Bent suggests that Raheem Sterling should start on the left flank for Arsenal instead of Martinelli.

Bent, speaking on talkSPORT, expressed his disappointment in Arsenal's performance against Atalanta. He felt that they were off their game and lacked creativity, with players like Kai Havertz and Declan Rice not performing up to par. He also noted that Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus, who also struggled in the game, seemed to be lacking match sharpness.

When discussing the upcoming match against City, Bent believes that there is only one spot up for grabs in the starting lineup. He feels that Bukayo Saka, who has been nursing an injury, did not need to play in the game and should have been rested for the weekend. Bent also suggests that Havertz will take up his usual position as center forward, with Leandro Trossard playing in the No.10 role where Martin Odegaard usually plays.

Bent was critical of Martinelli's performance against Atalanta, stating that he did not do himself any favors. He believes that Martinelli's decision-making and confidence have been affected, leading to rushed and incorrect techniques in crucial moments. In contrast, Bent sees Sterling as a more composed and experienced option for the left flank in the match against City.

In conclusion, Bent believes that Martinelli's place in the starting lineup is the only one at risk, and he would choose Sterling over him. He attributes this to Martinelli's lack of goals and assists, as well as his poor decision-making and confidence. With Arsenal's upcoming game against City being a vital one, Bent hopes to see a strong and composed lineup, with players performing at their best.

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