Gabriel Jesus returns to full training with Brazil

Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has rejoined full training with the Brazilian national team ahead of the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina after recuperating from a hamstring injury that kept him out of action for the past month.

The 26-year-old’s absence stemmed from an injury concern during the 2-1 Champions League win over Sevilla, where he scored a goal and provided an assist before being withdrawn.

Although there were doubts about his fitness, Jesus has been included in the Brazilian squad. However, expectations are that he won’t participate in Brazil’s match against Colombia but might feature in the qualifier against Argentina on 22 November, thanks to his steady recovery.

Gabriel Jesus returns to full training with Brazil

The decision to summon Jesus despite fitness concerns led to Brazil utilising FIFA rules to assess his condition firsthand at their training camp near Rio de Janeiro. Coach Fernando Diniz expressed optimism about Jesus’s potential availability for the upcoming matches, emphasising the importance of having the player present for the squad’s evaluation.

Diniz has been focused on fostering unity within the national squad and ensuring key players are present during team gatherings. The Brazilian coach mentioned that Jesus arrived prepared and feeling positive about his recovery, with sufficient time available before the scheduled games.

“I talked to Gabriel and he didn’t come here without planning. He said he’s feeling good, he’s already doing certain things and when I spoke to him we had two more weeks, 10 days at least till the first game [against Colombia] and 15 days ’til the second one [against Argentina]. He is in good condition, we are doing things with great care. As soon as he arrived we made a new MRI we [are] treating him very carefully.”

Jesus is one of three Arsenal players named in the Brazilian squad, alongside Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli.