Gabriel Jesus delivered a statement performance in Arsenal’s dramatic 3-2 midweek victory over Crystal Palace, scoring a hat-trick in the Carabao Cup.
This timely return to form has given Mikel Arteta a significant selection challenge ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash with Palace today.
The Brazilian striker has endured a challenging year, battling injuries and a dip in confidence that pushed him down the pecking order.
In his absence, Kai Havertz, originally signed as an attacking midfielder, has been leading the line for Arsenal. However, Havertz’s form has faltered recently, opening the door for Jesus to reclaim his place.
Jesus, who had gone a year without a goal at the Emirates, reminded everyone of his capabilities on Wednesday night.
Speaking about his approach, Jesus revealed he doesn’t pressure managers for playing time: “I’ve only knocked on a manager’s door once in my life,” Jesus shared. “It was with Pep Guardiola, not to complain, but to ask what I could improve. I’d never go to Mikel and demand to play.”
Despite external pressure on him as Arsenal’s No. 9, Jesus remains unfazed: “People focus on stats and say, ‘Gabby played 20 games and scored once,’ but they don’t see I’m only getting five or ten minutes. As a striker, the pressure to score is constant—if I score 10, people want 20; if it’s 20, they’ll ask for 30.”
Arteta acknowledged the impact of Jesus’ performance, highlighting the positive energy it brought to the squad: “Gabby’s teammates were thrilled for him. His hat-trick helped us secure a spot in the semi-finals, and his joy was infectious. That’s exactly the kind of energy we need for everyone to perform at their best.”
As Arsenal prepare for their trip to Selhurst Park, all eyes are on Arteta to see if Jesus has done enough to earn a starting role against Crystal Palace once again.