New forward "out of Arteta's hands" as Jesus faces possible ACL injury

Kai Havertz's struggles in front of goal have been generating debate at Arsenal for weeks: should the winter transfer window be used to sign a new striker? Now, a new element has joined the debate: Gabriel Jesus is seriously injured. He was injured in the FA Cup match against Manchester United, in which Ruben Amorim's side booked their place in the last 16 on penalties.

Shortly before half-time, the Brazilian made a fierce tackle on Bruno Fernandes and hurt himself. The Portuguese, in the process, lost a boot and threw it indignantly, so the referee gave him a yellow card. In order to remove his opponent from the pitch, the London team's medical services had to carry a stretcher onto the pitch because the injured player could not even stand up.

A few hours have passed since the incident and no medical reports have been issued from the Emirates Stadium, although Mikel Arteta, the Gunners' coach, has made no secret of his concern. In the mixed zone after the game, he admitted he is not expecting good news about the former City man. Asked if it would be possible to get a reinforcement in the transfer window, he replied that it is "out of his hands".

Pending a thorough examination by Arsenal's medics, Gabriel Jesus is speculated to have ruptured his ACL. Other more career-friendly scenarios include a meniscus tear that would keep him out for around four months or a bone sprain that would greatly reduce his recovery time. The worst-case scenario would keep him sidelined until next season.

 

January 13, 2025