The current injury status of Arsenal star Gabriel Jesus is unclear, as the striker has been out of action for a few weeks but has also joined up with the Brazil squad.
Gabriel Jesus travelled to Brazil to join Fernando Diniz’s squad ahead of crucial matches against Colombia and Argentina, with the idea that he would be tested by his National Team’s medics.
Gabriel Martinelli is also in the squad, having missed the last Brazil fixtures with injury despite featuring in Arsenal’s victory over Manchester City just before the break in October.
Brazil’s doctor has now given a worrying update on when we can expect Jesus to return.
Brazil doctor gives Gabriel Jesus injury update
Speaking to GloboEsporte, doctor Rodrigo Lasmar claimed that a return for Jesus may be some way off.
“We have maintained contact with the club’s medical department and the athlete,” he stated of Jesus.
“He is recovering from a muscle injury to the back of his right thigh.
“I’ll talk to the doctors and Edu (Gaspar). He did not do any training with the team, is far from returning, and has internal communication between clubs and national teams.”
This comes as a surprise given a report that Jesus could be set to feature against Argentina next week, but will not play against Colombia on Thursday.
Should Gabriel Jesus feature for Brazil?
Arsenal will be extremely cautious about how Jesus is used in this international break. The striker has suffered from multiple injuries this season, and any risk of losing him for another extended period will be avoided.
Edu Gaspar’s connections to the Brazil National Team should hopefully help the club agree how Jesus should be used. Brazil face two crucial games, which Jesus will want to feature in, and both games will likely be highly intense battles.
If Jesus is fit to return, then gaining match sharpness with Brazil could be a positive, but Mikel Arteta may be particularly worried about him.
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