Right now, both Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal supporters will be conducting their own post-mortem after drawing 0-0 with Everton on Saturday.
Such is the pressure of the title-race right now, Arsenal being held to a point against Everton feels like something of a disaster.
Arsenal were superb defensively, they didn’t concede any xG from shots on target, a remarkable feat.
However, given that Arsenal fans are so desperate to land the Premier League title, failing to score seems to be the only focus in the post-Everton aftermath.
Gabriel Martinelli was scolded by fans after the draw, but that criticism does feel slightly misdirected.
Gabriel Jesus delivers another ineffective Arsenal display vs Everton
Martinelli can be defended because of his incredible defensive efforts – a non-negotiable for Arteta.
However, after another ineffective substitute display against Everton, it’s becoming harder and harder to defend Gabriel Jesus.
READ MORE: Arsenal handed new Declan Rice injury worry as Raheem Sterling snub addressed by Mikel Arteta
Jesus is earning £265k-a-week at Arsenal and his current contract is thought to run until 2027.
Big wages for a player who is simply not befitting those numbers with his contributions on the pitch.
Arteta introduced Jesus earlier than usual against Everton, a move which saw Kai Havertz drop into the number eight role rather than coming off.
And as has been the case for a long time now, Jesus wasn’t able to do anything to change the pace or narrative of the game.
Ethan Nwaneri made an impact from the bench, as did Thomas Partey.
However, Jesus simply demonstrated once again that he’s not the Havertz alternative that Arsenal need moving forward.
Jesus wages’ could block his Arsenal exit
Unfortunately, Arsenal could have a big issue if they decide to offload Jesus in the future.
Jesus isn’t on the list of three players who could leave Arsenal in January – there’s very little chance that the Brazilian leaves mid-season.
In fact, it’s hard to imagine the striker leaving at all before his contract is said to expire in 2027.
Arsenal paid £45m to sign Jesus in 2022, and should they sell the 27-year-old they would surely want to recoup a lot of those funds.
In addition, the Gunners would also need to find a club who were willing to match the Brazilian’s wages, which will be no easy feat.
Jesus simply doesn’t represent value at those numbers right now, meaning Arsenal could be stuck with the striker for a fair few seasons to come, unless they recognise the need to accept their losses.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
