Mikel Arteta has delivered a significant update on the fitness and readiness of striker Gabriel Jesus, declaring the Brazilian forward is now prepared to start matches for Arsenal.
Jesus Back in Contention After ACL Injury
The Arsenal manager made the announcement in his press conference ahead of the Gunners' clash with Crystal Palace. Jesus suffered a devastating ACL injury in January 2025, having shown promising goalscoring form prior to the setback.
After a lengthy rehabilitation, the former Manchester City star made his return to action earlier in December. He has since made three appearances from the substitutes' bench, including a 25-minute cameo in the recent victory over Everton.
"Yes, he is," Arteta stated definitively when asked if Jesus was capable of starting. "You can see now, not only in games, every day in training, how much he wants it. He's going to deserve a chance soon."
Arteta Praises Jesus's Unique Qualities
The Spanish coach highlighted the specific attributes Jesus brings to the team, suggesting they differ from those of summer signing Viktor Gyokeres. Arteta believes Jesus's ability to connect play is a major asset.
"I think that's probably the biggest quality of Gabi, bringing people together, connecting with people and generating a lot of uncertainty in the opponent," Arteta explained.
"When you see him today, the amount of spaces that he was involved in, that's his biggest quality. So we need to exploit that." The imminent return to the starting lineup could coincide with Jesus's 100th appearance for the club.
Pressure Mounts on Gyokeres
Jesus's return to full fitness intensifies the competition for the central striking role, with Viktor Gyokeres's recent performances coming under scrutiny. The Swedish international scored his fifth Premier League goal of the season from the penalty spot against Everton, but his overall display drew criticism.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp was particularly vocal in his assessment. "He did okay, it’s a struggle for him at the moment, I think he’s finding it hard up there," Redknapp said.
He added: "Considering he’s a very big guy, I very rarely see him win a duel one on one... In terms of his finesse, his touch, bringing people into play – not good enough."
Redknapp concluded that while Gyokeres is a "battering ram" who can score important goals, his current form is merely "okay." This analysis places the striker's starting position in further doubt as a fully-fit Gabriel Jesus waits in the wings.
Arteta's comments set the stage for a crucial selection decision in Arsenal's attacking line, with the experienced Jesus now officially back in contention to lead the line as the Premier League season enters a busy period.
