4. Gabriel Jesus is back
A sentiment that looked unlikely even just a fortnight ago.
After his first big layoff in December 2022, Gabriel Jesus has endured lots of knee and hamstring trouble since which only continued over the past year.
Each niggle keeps him out of contention (he missed eight games through injury in 23/24) but, more importantly, prevents him from reaching his typical heights when he does make it onto the pitch, a sad reality that has plunged him down the Arsenal pecking order.
However, a lack of funds and market opportunities mean the Gunners need Jesus in the short term – especially with Saka out – and he is proving his worthiness for the task, his five recent goals against Crystal Palace keeping our title/cup shows on the road.
He will probably not be the first name on the team-sheet, but his return to fitness and form is huge for an Arsenal team short on attacking options and will hopefully help the team navigate a packed January schedule.
Continued on the next slide...