Mikel Arteta has firmly dismissed speculation suggesting Gabriel Jesus could leave Arsenal during the January transfer window.
The Brazilian forward, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City two-and-a-half years ago, transformed the Gunners’ attack upon arrival but has recently struggled to find his form.
Jesus suffered a significant knee injury during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and his performances have since lacked their earlier impact. The 27-year-old has only managed one goal in 2024, with his sole strike this season coming in a Carabao Cup match against Preston North End last month.
During Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Fulham on Sunday, Jesus came off the bench but failed to make a significant impact, continuing a difficult period for the striker. Reports have emerged linking him with a return to Brazil in January, but Arteta was quick to shut down such claims ahead of Arsenal’s crucial Champions League clash with Monaco.
“No, no sense,” Arteta responded bluntly when asked if Jesus might leave next month. Addressing the striker’s recent struggles, the Arsenal boss added,
“Like all strikers, they go through phases and moments, and that gap is becoming big. Injuries, absences, and a lack of consistent starts have played a part, but his attitude has been really good, as it always is. We’re working to help him overcome this as soon as possible.”
Arsenal heads into tonight’s Champions League match against Monaco facing defensive challenges, with several key players sidelined. Despite the setbacks, a win would bolster their chances of automatically advancing to the next round.
Arteta expressed admiration for the challenge posed by their Ligue 1 opponents: “They’re a very good side, as their form in the Champions League and league shows, especially against top teams. They’re well-organized, intense, and dangerous in transitions. It will be a big test for us.”
The Gunners’ left-back position is particularly vulnerable, with Riccardo Calafiori, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Oleksandr Zinchenko likely unavailable. This scenario could open the door for Kieran Tierney, who hasn’t featured for Arsenal’s first team since May 2023.
“Yeah, he is ready,” Arteta said of the Scotland international, who spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad. “He’s training really well, and he’ll have an opportunity, given the current situation. He’s earned it with his behavior and commitment, and when players do that, they deserve a chance.”
Arsenal will need a solid performance from both their attackers and makeshift defense to secure a vital victory in tonight’s Champions League showdown.
