Arteta backs struggling-Gabriel Jesus amid Arsenal exit rumours

The Brazilian was brought to north London two years ago in a £45million deal from Manchester City and had kicked off his career with the Gunners in style. He scored 10 goals in his first 10 games at the club (including pre-season friendlies), including a stellar display against Leicester in the Premier League on August 13 2022 as he netted twice and also provided two assists, building excitement around him.

But since the glorious afternoon at the Emirates, Jesus has fallen in Mikel Arteta's pecking order as he failed to live up to expectations. Having entered his third year at Arsenal, he has failed to register a goal in the Premier League this season, with just two starts to his name in the English top flight. He has three contributions in all competitions this campaign, with the latest on Wednesday night when Arsenal beat Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League.

Before his assist for Saka, Gabriel Jesus had missed clear three chances to put his side in front, raising concerns that Arsenal should look to find an upgrade in the attack. Former Gunners player Martin Keown was one to criticise the striker. "We talk about Havertz and Jesus – they need to score more goals and be more ruthless," Keown told 'TNT Sports'. "There is no doubt about it. I think they could do with that different tool in the box, that player who can find an opportunity out of nothing".

"Jesus has come with a lot of experience, he has brought a lot to the group, but he wants his goals on the pitch. He has played his part but Arsenal need that prolific goalscorer to put these opportunities away. It was a professional performance. There was a little drop but the manager reacted really well to that and made the subs. Really important win tonight for the momentum. Bukayo Saka is at the end of everything, he’s so important. He’s a seasoned professional already," he added.

Nevertheless, Mikel Arteta is of the opposite opinion, showing his support for Jesus despite his struggles. "No, no sense," Arteta said when asked if the Brazil international would be leaving in the January transfer window. "Like all strikers, they go on phases and moments and that gap is becoming big. It’s true that obviously a lot of things have happened, injuries, absences of not playing or starting games that much," he added before Monaco visited the Emirates.

 

December 10, 2024