Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has stated that Gabriel Jesus “is ready to go” against Fulham.
The Brazilian was back in full training on Thursday and there were some encouraging signs from the session after missing the Community Shield victory over Manchester City as well as the two Premier League games against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace due to a minor knee operation.
There had been talk among some fans about Jesus getting some playing time in order to prepare for next weekend’s match against Manchester United because the Cottagers were the Gunners’ penultimate opponent before the first international break of the season.
And it would seem that might be the case given Arteta’s admission that the striker has trained well all week and is prepared to play against Marco Silva’s team right away if necessary. The Gunners are aiming to make it three wins in a row to start the new Premier League season.
“I was overjoyed. After the preseason, he had to undergo another operation, which was a major setback for him, the Arsenal boss revealed in his pre-game press conference on Friday. He seemed quite sharp. He worked hard the entire week. He’s all set to depart.
It is unclear if Arteta will give Jesus the start, especially considering how well Eddie Nketiah has led the line without the Brazilian. The alumnus of the Hale End academy scored against Nottingham Forest, and despite missing a fantastic opportunity versus Palace, he did win the penalty that Martin Odegaard successfully converted.
Jesus had an ironic return from a three-month injury layoff in the rematch versus Fulham last season, coming off the bench to play the final 13 minutes at Craven Cottage, showing promising indications but also losing a great opportunity. The injury was sustained at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
