Arsenal have named their travelling squad for the pre-season tour of Asia, and one notable omission is Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian forward will stay in London to continue his recovery following a recent knee procedure, as reported by @RyanTaylorSport. His absence is precautionary, with the club keen to manage his workload carefully ahead of the new campaign.
Gabriel Jesus has dealt with recurring knee issues since joining Arsenal from Manchester City, and the club’s medical team are determined to avoid setbacks. He underwent minor knee surgery earlier this summer and has since been following a structured rehabilitation programme at London Colney.
Arsenal cautious with Gabriel Jesus recovery plan
Given his injury history and importance to the squad, Mikel Arteta has opted against rushing Jesus back for pre-season friendlies. Although the 27-year-old is progressing well, the decision to leave him behind reflects Arsenal’s longer-term thinking. With Champions League, Premier League, and domestic cup campaigns ahead, his availability for the full season is far more valuable than pre-season minutes.
This decision may also give a hint into Arteta’s summer planning. With Viktor Gyökeres set to arrive from Sporting, Arsenal will soon have a new centre-forward option. That, in turn, will allow Jesus more time to regain sharpness before competing for a starting place or being used in a wider or support role.
Vieira also left out after Club World Cup
Fabio Vieira is another player who will not be joining the squad in Asia. The Portuguese midfielder has been granted an extended break after appearing for Porto at the Club World Cup earlier this summer. Arsenal have taken a more individualised approach to player workloads this pre-season, ensuring each squad member is managed based on their specific situation.
Author Opinion
Gabriel Jesus missing the pre-season tour is not a major concern, but it does underline Arsenal’s need for reliable depth in the striker position. With Gyökeres incoming and Kai Havertz able to fill in centrally, Arteta has options but Jesus’ fitness will still be crucial across a long and intense season.
