‘A lot of desire’: National media defends £45m Arsenal star after difficult outing

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Gabriel Jesus has earned some plaudits for his latest performance at international level.

Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus led the line for Brazil against Uruguay in a World Cup qualification match.

The result did not go the way of the Selecao. Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay side were able to record an impressive 2-0 win.

None of the Brazil players were able to produce their finest performance. However, Jesus was one of the few who showed glimpses of his quality. This fact was recognised the Brazilian press.

After the match, Globo Esporte shared their player ratings. The publication awarded the 26-year-old a 6/10. Further, they said of the Arsenal man’s display: “another player who did not sin by omission. Where as a reference man at the beginning of the match or a step back after Neymar’s injury, he looked for the game, looked for the ball and tried individual plays. A lot of desire, despite producing few clear chances.”

The fact that Jesus produced a passionate, hard-working display for his country will come as no surprise to Arsenal fans. The £45 million former Manchester City man has been embodying those attributes in his game since his arrival at the Emirates Stadium.

What Jesus offers Arsenal

Whilst his finishing is not always clinical, Jesus never wavers in terms of effort or endeavour. This makes him an incredibly effective pressing forward. Mikel Arteta can always rely on the 61-cap Brazil international to lead the press and consistently pressurise opposition players when they are in possession.

That being said, Arsenal could really do with Jesus becoming more prolific. If they are to mount a successful title push this season, they need a striker that they can rely upon to take his chances. Transfer links with Brentford forward Ivan Toney, as reported by The Mirror, suggests that Arteta is aware that his side are lacking someone who can spearhead the attack with real cutting edge.

Even if the Gunners do bring in a new striker, Jesus will still have a key role to play. He is incredibly important to Arteta in a tactical sense, and helps to bring the best out of many of his teammates.