Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli has revealed the one footballer he idolised when he was a youngster.

The Brazilian has been a sensation for the Gunners in the Premier League this season, as they have mounted a title challenge against Manchester City.

Recently, Martinelli stated that Cristiano Ronaldo was his biggest footballing idol growing up.

“If you were talking about footballers, the person I looked up to was always Cristiano Ronaldo," Martinelli told Arsenal's official club site.

“I used to watch him a lot when I was growing up, I loved his style, but in life, my main inspirations for sure are my parents.

"Back when I was young and still now, they are always there for me. They have helped me in so many ways, from day one, they have always been with me, supporting me, giving me advice and trying to help me.

“My dad played a bit of football when he was younger. He wasn't professional but he liked to play for fun and he loves the sport.

“So when I was younger I always wanted to play, and my parents would encourage me too. I think my dad always had that dream of having a son that could become a professional footballer.

"My mum as well always encouraged me from day one when I started out in football. They always did everything they could to help me achieve my goals and to become a footballer."