Arsenal were preparing to train in the sweaty climes of Orlando when Gabriel Martinelli had staff and players checking their watches.
It was last summer’s tour and, for once, the Brazilian’s speed had deserted him. On this occasion, he was slowing everything down.
While Martinelli conducted an interview, team-mates began to playfully heckle the 21-year-old, reminding him the session was starting.
Perhaps they were on to something. Now Martinelli is driving Mikel Arteta’s side to new heights, perhaps this was an early sign that, without him, nothing at Arsenal quite functions properly.