Arsenal fans have debated online whether Gabriel Martinelli snubbed a handshake from Emile Smith Rowe after being substituted in the club’s defeat to Fulham.

The Gunners faltering form of late continued at Craven Cottage on Sunday, despite Mikel Arteta’s side taking an early lead through Bukayo Saka.

Marco Silva’s side have historically struggled after falling behind in the Premier League but recovered well on Sunday, with Raul Jimenez connecting with Tom Cairney’s cross to equalise on 29 minutes.

Despite his shot providing the rebound for Saka’s opener, Martinelli struggled to impact the game as it progressed and the Brazilian was replaced by Leandro Trossard as Arsenal chased an equaliser.

Arsenal fans on social media have questioned whether Gabriel Martinelli intentionally snubbed Emile Smith Rowe

Frustrations were evident at Craven Cottage as Arsenal suffered back-to-back defeats for the first time this season

As Martinelli returned to the bench, he acknowledged Reiss Nelson but appeared to miss the offer of a handshake from Smith-Rowe leading to discussion from supporters on social media.

Some fans interpreted the Brazilian’s actions as an intentional slight towards his teammate.

One wrote: ‘Knew something is wrong with dis team but y’all won’t say the truth.’

Another noted that Smith Rowe could soon be departing the club: ‘Didn’t notice this, maybe clears a few things up. 

‘I genuinely think Smith Rowe is leaving in Jan, which will be a massive loss, we’re so much better with him in the team.’

Some supporters on social media were convinced Martinelli had snubbed his teammate

Another added: ‘Feel sorry for ESR at this point he deserves so much better.’

Other supporters insisted that Martinelli simply hadn’t seen Smith Rowe’s outstretched hand as he took his place on the bench.

One wrote: ‘He probably didn’t see him, and you guys are making an issue out of nothing. 

‘He he main issue is how poor the team has been for more than a month now.’

Another agreed: ‘Nothing, people are just looking for problems where there are none, probably just didn’t see, didn’t dap up Reiss either, Reiss just patted him on the back.’

But others insisted that the Brazilian has simply not seen Smith Rowe’s outstretched hand

Smith Rowe has been linked with a move away from the Emirates in January after finding himself on the fringes of Mikel Arteta’s squad

Smith Rowe has struggled for minutes this season, with injuries further limiting his involvement for the Gunners.

The 23-year-old was an unused substitute in the club’s first five Premier League games, and has made just one start in the league this season – playing 73 minutes before being replaced in the club’s 5-0 win over Sheffield United in October.

The academy graduate was linked with a move away from the Emirates this summer, with Arsenal reportedly rebuffing an approach from Chelsea for the England international.

Newcastle are also said to be interested in signing the midfielder, with Eddie Howe reportedly keen on pursuing a move for Smith Rowe once the transfer window opens on Monday.