This was Arsenal's third away match in succession and the Gunners have been in good form on their travels.
They had scored three goals in each of their previous three away games during a run of five victories.
But, with Arteta rotating his side from 3-2 Carabao Cup semi-final first leg victory at Chelsea in midweek by resting first choice wingers Leandro Trossard and Saka, his side lacked threat.
Martinelli, who scored a hat-trick a week ago in the 4-1 FA Cup victory at Portsmouth, was taken off at half-time with Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Eberechi Eze thrown on by the Arsenal manager as they looked for a creative spark.
However, despite a period of pressure in the second half, Arsenal could not find a way through, with a superb save from Sels also keeping them out.
The result gives Aston Villa the opportunity to cut the gap to four points when they host Everton on Sunday (16:30 GMT).
