The former striker is ‘very excited’ to watch his compatriot’s development (Picture: Getty)

Brazil legend Ronaldo has backed Arsenal starlet Gabriel Martinelli to be a major force at the next World Cup despite his limited impact at the most recent tournament in Qatar.

The Selecao were knocked out in the quarter-final after a penalty shootout defeat to Croatia, though Martinelli was not called upon by manager Tite and had to watch from the dugout.

Despite his strong performances in the Premier League for Arsenal, the 21-year-old was a peripheral figure in Qatar and only started once in Brazil’s final group match against Cameroon – which was effectively a dead rubber.

He made two other late substitute appearances in wins over Serbia and South Korea though did not register a goal or an assist.

Brazil are, of course, blessed with an abundance of elite attackers but Ronaldo is convinced Martinelli has a very bright future ahead of him and will play a far more prominent role at the next World Cup in 2026.

Asked if Martinelli can be Brazil’s forward in the future, Ronaldo told Apostagolos: ‘He is definitely a great asset.

‘He is developing wonderfully at Arsenal and showed his potential in the group stage in Qatar. He will certainly stand out at the 2026 World Cup.

Martinelli was way down Brazil’s pecking order in Qatar (Picture: Getty)

‘We are very excited about him. What impresses me the most is that he plays with a lot of passion and self-confidence.’

By the time the next World Cup kicks off, Brazilian talisman Neymar will be 34 years old and the PSG star hinted that he might call time on his international career following his nation’s disappointing exit – though Ronaldo does not believe that would be a wise move.

He continued: ‘Now he’s sad and that’s okay, but he is still young. At the age of 31 he can still easily play in the next World Cup.

‘He is very popular in Brazil right now because he identifies so well with his national team, he always gives his best and he has done everything over the last six months to be in top shape for this World Cup in Qatar.

‘He made a big effort to be fit for this World Cup and he did it. Furthermore, the way he recovered from his ankle injury in the first game against Serbia was impressive.

‘Against Croatia he was a top-quality player and he remains an important part of the national team. I’m sure he will come back even stronger for PSG and attack with renewed vigour. Neymar wants to win the Champions League with PSG.’

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