Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta explains “special situation” with Emiliano Martinez

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has said that Emiliano Martinez is in a “special situation” after dropping him for their Premier League opener.

The Gunners head across London to take on newly promoted Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Martinez has been the club’s No 1 for several months having taken over from Bernd Leno.

The German’s starting spot had been unchallenged but Martinez’s performances saw calls for Arteta to retain him in goal having deputised impressively.

But Leno, who has been injured since Arsenal loss to Brighton on June 20, has been named to start on his comeback from injury.

There has been plenty of speculation linking Martinez, who has helped the north Londoners win the FA Cup and Community Shield, with a move away from the Emirates.

And Arteta has cited the rumour mill as a factor in his decision to drop the 28-year-old from the matchday squad all together.

He said: “We have a special situation at the moment in goal.

“Obviously the transfer market is open, we know all the rumours, so we decided to play Bernd (Leno) today.”

Martinez has been on Arsenal’s books since 2012 but been loaned out on several occasions.

Prior to last season the Argentine had made just 14 appearances in eight seasons but went on to make 23 last term.

Nevertheless, he is aware of the interest in him and will opt for the move that best suits him.

“I am in the sights of 10 teams in Europe,” he told Marca last month. “But I can’t say who those clubs are, because it’s nothing concrete.

“I still do not have the clear situation with Arsenal, when I have it when I return I will make the best decision for my career.”