Arsenal’s number 9, Gabriel Jesus, has found himself at a crossroads in recent weeks, with form and injuries affecting his impact on the team.
With uncertainty surrounding the fitness of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli, there’s a growing expectation for Jesus to rediscover his best form and step up for the Gunners. The forward, who famously secured Manchester City’s 100-point season with a last-minute goal, has yet to fully replicate his best form at Arsenal. Since his £45m move from Manchester City, the Brazilian has struggled to live up to the hype, netting just 15 goals in 68 Premier League matches. As a result, fans are eager to see him perform at a higher level.
Gabriel Jesus should start on the bench vs Bournemouth
The injury problems at Arsenal are pointing towards a possibility of having a highly rotated side starting against the Cherries later today, however, while previewing the game, former Arsenal midfielder Adrian Clarke discussed what Arsenal should do with Gabriel Jesus. And he acknowledged that the Brazilian shouldn’t start for the Gunners against Andoni Iraola’s side owing to his poor form off late.
Clarke did argue that Jesus shouldn’t be completely ruled out, but that shouldn’t mean he walks in the side at Vitality Stadium later today.
Speaking on the Handbrake Off Podcast, Adrian Clarke said:
“I would give him a pity penalty, that’s what I’d do, something to get him going. No, I wouldn’t start him because he’s not in good form. Let’s not write him off, he still has plenty to offer, but at the moment every point matters, it’s not time to rotate massively, so I’d have him off the bench.”
Arteta not giving up just yet
Mikel Arteta recently shed light on Jesus’ situation, suggesting that the forward is in “probably the best condition he’s been with us.” Arteta praised the striker’s excellent pre-season, which was unfortunately interrupted by an untimely injury.
“He was flying in pre-season, but unfortunately, he picked up an injury that sidelined him for a few weeks. Since then, he’s worked hard to come back, and now he just needs to regain his rhythm,” Arteta told the media.
Jesus has started in three consecutive matches for Arsenal against Atalanta, Southampton, and Bolton, showing Arteta’s faith in the player despite his lack of end product. Arteta reaffirmed Jesus’ role within the team, saying, “He has our full support. He’s a versatile player who can perform in various positions, and he’s a crucial part of the team.”
With eight appearances this season but no goals or assists to show for his efforts, the pressure is mounting on Jesus to deliver.
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Nevertheless, Arteta’s belief in his forward suggests that the club sees Jesus as a key part of their future plans. As Arsenal competes on multiple fronts this season, they’ll need Jesus to find his form quickly, especially with mounting injury concerns in their attacking options. If he can stay fit and get back to his best, he could yet play a pivotal role in Arsenal’s campaign.
