Gabriel Jesús was injured in the World Cup with Brazil in the team’s defeat against Cameroon. While he didn’t appear too serious at first, later tests revealed that the Arsenal striker needs surgery. Officially, it is a medial ligament injury to the striker’s right knee.
Mike McGrath of the Telegraph reports that recovery time from surgery depends on the player. However, it can take months to properly heal and get back into shape. Initially, Jesús intended to stay with the team in the hope that the injury was nothing serious. Now his absence deals a major blow to Arsenal’s bid to finish top of the Premier League table.
Domestically, the striker appeared in all three group stage matches. However, two of those were substitute appearances. In addition, he started the third game against Cameroon after Brazil already qualified for the round of 16 of the 2022 World Cup.
However, with Arsenal, Jesus is much more critical. In 14 Premier League games this season, he has five goals and six assists. Of course, some of that performance waned from a brilliant start to the campaign. Gabriel Jesus has not scored a goal in his last six Premier League games. However, he has three assists in that time frame to keep some form.
Gabriel Jesus’ injury puts Arsenal to the test
As for the loss of the Brazilian striker, the concern is minimal. Gabriel Jesus played a rotating role to provide some momentum off the bench. Neymar, Richarlison, VinÃcius and Raphinha seem to be the favorite options in a front of three. On top of that, there are attacking options including Antony, Rodrygo, Pedro and his Arsenal teammate Gabriel Martinelli who are attacking options for Tite.
Going into the World Cup, Arsenal built up a Premier League table lead over Manchester City. Having played 14 matches for each team, Arsenal have a five-point lead over City in the table.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Fotoarena
