Mikel Arteta has now made it clear that he still has faith in one of his struggling Arsenal stars.
A number of the Gunners’ attackers have struggled to impress consistently this season.
Gabriel Martinelli came under fire from Arsenal fans after his performance against Fulham last time out. On top of that, Kai Havertz has been inconsistent in his efforts to lead the line, Leandro Trossard has frustrated at times, and Raheem Sterling has offered nothing since his arrival from Chelsea on loan.
However, Gabriel Jesus has almost certainly endured a more difficult time than any of his aforementioned teammates.
The Brazilian forward is without a Premier League goal since January and is clearly bereft of confidence.
Mikel Arteta clear on Gabriel Jesus future
The former Manchester City man’s struggles have raised questions about his future at the Emirates Stadium. It has been argued that Arsenal should cut their losses on Jesus and seek to move him on as soon as possible.
However, finding a viable buyer for the forward may be tricky given his form and fitness record.
Regardless, Mikel Arteta has insisted that there is still a place for Jesus in North London. Speaking to the press ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Monaco, he was asked to address the transfer rumours surrounding Jesus.
The Spanish coach described the gossip as: “Nonsense.”
How Arsenal can help Jesus
On the subject of Jesus’ form and fight to get back to his best, Arteta stated: “Like with strikers, you know, they go in phases in moments and that gap is big [goal scoring for Gabriel Jesus] and it’s true that obviously a lot things happened there, a lot of injuries, a lot of absences, not playing or starting games that much.
“But his attitude has been really good, which it always is and we’re gonna look to help him overcome that situation as quick as possible.”
If the manager is serious about supporting Jesus at this time, then he has to give him as much game time as possible.
The 27-year-old needs meaningful minutes on the pitch to rediscover his form and confidence. That may mean sticking with him through some more difficult performances, but he stands absolutely zero chance of turning his fortunes around if he is shackled to the Arsenal bench.
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