Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that Gabriel Jesus has the quality to be the club’s first-choice striker following his return from an 11-month injury layoff.
The 28-year-old Brazil international made his comeback on Wednesday, playing his first minutes for the Gunners since suffering a knee injury in January. He came on as a substitute in Arsenal’s 3-0 Champions League win against Club Brugge.
Competition for the Striker Role
Jesus will face competition for the starting striker role from Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz, both of whom are currently sidelined with injuries. Arsenal also have several attacking options including Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Martinelli, Noni Madueke, and Leandro Trossard.
At his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash against Wolves, Arteta was asked if Jesus could push to be the club’s number one striker.
“Yes, a player of his quality, a player that has given us so much and he comes with the energy that he came with the other day. He’s certainly a player that has to be pushing and aiming for that, that’s for sure,” Arteta said.
Arsenal Committed to Keeping Jesus
Arteta also addressed speculation about selling the former Manchester City forward, stating that Jesus has a lot to offer the team and has proven his value since returning.
“Gabriel has put so much to be in this position again and now the focus is to be with us,” Arteta added.
The manager also expressed optimism for struggling Viktor Gyokeres, who has scored only once in the Premier League since mid-September.
“We have to put the player in the best possible condition to explode and fulfil his potential, and then there are certain things within the role, in the manner that we play, that have to be fulfilled, and that’s a combination of both,” Arteta said.
Arsenal’s Title Challenge
Arsenal currently lead the Premier League, two points clear of Manchester City, ahead of hosting Wolves, who have lost their last eight league matches.
Arteta remained non-committal on the fitness of key players including central defender William Saliba and midfielder Declan Rice, stating they will be assessed before the match. Uncertainty also surrounds Jurrien Timber and Leandro Trossard.
