Mikel Arteta Confirms ‘Big Worry’ Over Gabriel Jesus Knee Injury

• Gabriel Jesus stretchered off during FA Cup clash with Manchester United.
• Arteta expresses concern but rules out a recurrence of the previous knee injury.
• Calls grow louder for Arsenal to strengthen their attack in January.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed significant concerns over Gabriel Jesus’ fitness after the Brazilian forward was stretchered off during Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Manchester United.

Jesus, who started on the right wing following a series of standout performances as a central striker, had to leave the pitch before halftime after a collision with Bruno Fernandes resulted in an awkward fall. The 26-year-old was visibly in pain, clutching his knee as he was carried off.

Arteta’s Immediate Reaction

“Big worry. That’s my feeling,” Arteta admitted post-match. “He had to come off on a stretcher with a lot of pain. Touching his knee—it’s not looking good.”

While the severity of the injury remains unclear, Arteta confirmed that it is not related to the knee problem Jesus suffered during the 2022 World Cup, which sidelined him for nearly four months.

“I think it’s the other [knee]. The worrying factor is the feeling that he had. He had to come off and the pain that he was in,” Arteta added.

Implications for Arsenal’s Attack

Jesus’ injury comes at a critical time for Arsenal, who are already without Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri due to muscle injuries. With Jesus in fine form—scoring six goals in his last seven appearances—the Gunners may find themselves under pressure to reinforce their attacking options in the January transfer window.

Fans have been calling for the club to sign a new forward, a sentiment that is likely to grow louder following this latest setback. Arsenal’s long-standing need for a consistent central striker could push the club to act sooner rather than later.

Arteta’s Response to January Reinforcements

Despite the growing calls for new signings, Arteta maintained his focus on the current squad and downplayed any immediate concerns about recruitment.

“I mean, we miss from various ways, from different plays. And I understand that, but I cannot love our players more,” Arteta stated. “I focus very much on the ones that we have to perform at the highest level. That’s it. The rest is not in our hands, in my hands.”

What’s Next?

Arsenal fans and the team will be anxiously awaiting further updates on Jesus’ condition, with his absence likely to have a significant impact on the club’s attacking dynamics. Meanwhile, pressure will mount on Arsenal’s board to assess their January transfer plans and potentially secure reinforcements to keep their season on track.