Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus has made a fine start to pre-season and has now sent a message with his form and comments.
Gabriel Jesus endured a difficult campaign last time out.
The Arsenal forward could only muster four Premier League goals last season, as the lingering effects of a knee injury clearly hampered him on the pitch.
However, Jesus now looks fitter and fresher than he has for a long time and is clearly determined to remind everyone just how good he can be when in form and firing on all cylinders.
The 27-year-old has looked lively in pre-season and got on the scoresheet in the Gunners’ recent friendly against Manchester United in Los Angeles.
The Brazilian looks to have finally fully put his injury woes behind him, and appears to be full of confidence. Mikel Arteta will certainly be hoping that that is, and remains, the case.
Gabriel Jesus’ performance casts doubt on Arsenal’s need for Viktor Gyokeres
Meanwhile, the North London club are on the lookout for a new striker in this summer transfer window. Arsenal are now pushing to sign Viktor Gyokeres in a deal worth £85 million.
If Jesus is back to his best, though, then there must be a question as to whether the Gunners need a new striker at all this summer, especially with Kai Havertz having impressed in the role last season and Leandro Trossard also available to lead the line if required.
At his best, Jesus is a dazzling footballer and certainly capable of establishing himself as the manager’s first choice striker. The 64-cap Brazil international brings energy, flair, and directness to the team, and is able to improve those around him with his link up play and intelligent movement, as he creates space for others and occupies defenders.
Jesus sends optimistic message about return to form
Jesus is certainly determined to prove that he can be the main man at the Emirates Stadium. Speaking after the win over Manchester United, as quoted by the club’s official website, he reflected upon his injury and struggle to rediscover his spark.
He said: “That was a little bit difficult after to come back, but this season is different. I could enjoy my holidays and then I trained a lot, and I was focused to come back well and do a good pre-season. Now I’m in different shape and can play football again.”
Arteta and sporting director Edu must listen to Jesus’ words and give careful consideration as to how high on their list of priorities signing a striker this summer should now be.
That being said, even when fully fit, there are still flaws in the forward’s game. A lack of regular goals, for instance, has been an issue throughout his career. Jesus has promised Arsenal fans that he will make an effort to becomes more prolific, and it is certainly true that the club need to see improvements from him in that department.
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