‎Arteta Signals Gabriel Jesus Start as Arsenal Boss Praises Brazilian's Grit After ACL Comeback

‎Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has suggested that Gabriel Jesus may be in line for his first start in nearly a year as the Brazilian striker edges closer to full match sharpness. After a difficult 2025 marked by serious knee ligament damage, Jesus could feature prominently when the Gunners face Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-final.

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‎Mikel Arteta hints Gabriel Jesus could start for Arsenal against Crystal Palace, praising his fighting spirit after a long ACL injury recovery.

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‎Crystal Palace are set to visit the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, with Arteta finalising his plans for the cup tie. Squad rotation is expected after Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 Premier League win over Everton at the weekend. Attention will soon return to league duties, with Brighton scheduled to travel to north London on December 27.

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‎Arsenal’s advantage at the summit of the Premier League table has been reduced to two points, forcing Arteta to carefully balance domestic priorities. As a result, the Carabao Cup may not sit at the very top of the club’s objectives this season.

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‎Despite that, the competition offers valuable opportunities for fringe players to accumulate meaningful minutes. Jesus fits that profile after spending several months sidelined following an ACL injury sustained in January.

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‎Since returning to fitness, the forward has made three substitute appearances. When questioned about whether Jesus could start against Palace, Arteta responded positively, highlighting the striker’s determination in training and matches, and indicating that an opportunity is approaching.

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‎The Brazilian enjoyed a prolific spell against Crystal Palace last season, scoring five goals in quick succession, including a hat-trick in the Carabao Cup and two more in the Premier League. That run was followed by his injury setback, which kept him out of action for extended periods.

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‎Arsenal strengthened their forward line during the summer with the signing of Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres, who continues to adapt to English football. Jesus now provides Arteta with an experienced and versatile alternative in the central attacking role.

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‎Arteta has spoken highly of Jesus’ unique attributes, stressing his ability to link play, involve teammates, and disrupt opposing defenses through intelligent movement and positioning. The manager believes those qualities can be exploited effectively within Arsenal’s system.

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‎Jesus arrived at Arsenal in 2022 boasting four Premier League titles from his time in England. His next appearance will mark his 100th game for the club in all competitions, and Arteta remains convinced of his importance to the squad.

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‎The Arsenal boss reflected on Jesus’ impact since joining, noting how he elevated belief, energy, and mentality within the team. While injuries have prevented the consistency expected from a key player, Arteta praised the striker’s resilience, preparation, and fighting spirit since his return.

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‎Speculation surrounding Jesus’ future intensified during his injury absence, with links to the Saudi Pro League and a potential return to Brazil with Palmeiras. The striker addressed those rumours in an interview with The Players’ Tribune, acknowledging his affection for Palmeiras but making clear that he is not ready to leave Arsenal.

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‎Jesus explained that he feels there is unfinished business at the club, emphasizing that his ambition upon joining Arteta was focused on winning trophies rather than solely scoring goals.

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‎Currently under contract until the summer of 2027, Jesus’ long-term future remains a subject of discussion. Arsenal could eventually be forced to consider offers as his deal progresses, particularly with his market value likely to decrease as he approaches the final years of his contract.