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Could Gabriel Jesus return from injury against Sporting CP?
Gabriel Jesus is stepping up his recovery from a long-term knee injury and is edging closer to his return, but how long will it be until Gooners see the Brazilian in action again?
The summer arrival had a transformative impact on the club during the first half of the season after Edu pulled off a masterstroke to bring him to north London. Jesus suffered a prolonged goal drought before the World Cup, but his influence transcended mere goals and assists.
Still, Jesus notched 11 league goal contributions before his injury setback and many believed his injury could’ve derailed Arsenal’s impressive campaign. But that hasn’t been the case with the Gunners still five points clear at the Premier League summit.
The likes of Eddie Nketiah and Leandro Trossard have impressed in his absence, but Jesus’ return will be a massive boost for Mikel Arteta’s side down the stretch.
How long has Gabriel Jesus been injured for?
Jesus sustained his long-term knee injury at the World Cup during Brazil’s final group game against Cameroon on 2 December 2022.
He underwent surgery soon after which means Arsenal fans haven’t seen him in action for what’s felt like an eternity. The striker last donned red and white on 12 November 2022.
What’s the latest Mikel Arteta’s said about Gabriel Jesus’ recovery?
Mikel Arteta’s latest update arrived ahead of Saturday’s game against Bournemouth.
“He’s not far now. I don’t want to give a timeline but he’s doing certain things with the team, certain things outside the team. He’s not very close but he is not far at all.
“He’s feeling better every day and the doctors are confident with the way the injury is evolving and we are in a good place with him I think.”
The Spaniard added that despite Jesus’ long-term absence, the Brazilian’s injury “wasn’t that bad”.
Could Gabriel Jesus return to action on Thursday against Sporting CP?
The Brazilian will not make Thursday’s trip to Lisbon, but Arsenal hope to welcome Jesus back to the fold before the international break. Thus, he could make his comeback at the Emirates next week when Sporting return for the second leg.
With Jesus, Nketiah and Trossard all set to miss the first leg, Arteta has a selection dilemma over who to start up top. Gabriel Martinelli is the favourite to deputise, but Emile Smith Rowe or Fabio Vieira could be utilised as a false nine.