Arsenal recall Marquinhos from his loan spell at Nantes
According to Le Equipe, Premier League giants Arsenals have decided to recall Marquinhos from his loan spell at French side Nantes this January.
The 20-year-old joined the Gunners in 2022 and has already enjoyed two loan spells since. He spent half of the 2022-23 season on loan at Norwich City before moving to Nantes last summer. However, the move to France failed to much dividends as the Brazilian made just seven appearances, making one assist.
A right-winger, Marquinhos is a versatile player capable of donning several hats across the frontline. He showed immense glimpses of potential at Sau Paulo, forcing Arsenal to make their move for him.
The Brazilian will now join up with the Selecao under-23 national team for their 2024 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament held in Venezuela. Brazil will hope to secure one of the two spots available for South American teams at the 2024 Olympics in France this summer.
Just 18, Marquinhos helped Sau Paulo win the Sao Paulo State Championship in 2021 and also scored on his Arsenal debut against FC Zurich. Clearly, there is a player there who can thrive under the right guidance and motivation.
Arsenal have lost steam in the title race and appear tired. With much football left to play, both Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka look gassed. This does not bode well in the long term given that both players will also be busy with their international teams in the summer.
Depth is something Mikel Arteta lacks and Marquinhos now has the opportunity to make a difference. Having a player who can come off the bench will not just offer Arsenal something different but also help the Gunners rest some of their best players. After all, it takes a squad to win a title and not just a reliable first XI.
For now, it remains to be seen what Arsenal’s plans for the 20-year-old are. Surely they can afford to retain him and aid in his development for the reminder of the season.
