Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney has lavished praise on teammate Gabriel Martinelli after being left awestruck by the Brazilian’s ability since he moved to the Emirates in the summer.

Following his switch from Celtic in August, Tierney said he was immediately put up one-against-one with the teenager in training, and he was blown away by the forward’s talent:

“When I first did a full training session with the team I was put up against him and the intensity of his play was honestly mindblowing and I thought to myself this is the standard I need to be at to play for Arsenal.

“I think his hunger and drive and his talent together at one is more than enough to be a world-class player for many years.”

Martinelli only cost £7m when he signed from Ituano back in July but his performances have already seen him linked with a big-money move to Real Madrid.

The Gunners will, however, be determined to keep hold of the 18-year-old, who has scored 10 goals and provided four assists in 26 appearances this season.

As Tierney mentions, Martinelli has certainly shown great work ethic and determination since his move to England and combined with his talent, there is every chance that he could develop into a world star if he continues to apply himself like he has done so far.