Arsenal’s head coach, Mikel Arteta, expressed significant concern regarding Gabriel Jesus following the striker’s knee injury sustained during the first half of their FA Cup elimination against Manchester United on Sunday.
The Brazilian forward was injured while attempting to intercept a shot from United’s Bruno Fernandes, resulting in an immediate reaction indicating distress.
He was visibly in pain, covering his face with his shirt as he was carried off on a stretcher in the 40th minute, leading to Raheem Sterling taking his place.
Ultimately, Arsenal succumbed to a 5-3 defeat in the penalty shootout after the match concluded at 1-1.
The specifics of Jesus’ injury remain uncertain, but when Arteta was questioned about the right knee that required surgical intervention in December 2022, he clarified, “No, I think it’s the other one.”
He further articulated, “It’s a big worry — that’s how I feel. He had to be taken off on a stretcher due to significant pain, touching his knee.”
The notion that the situation may not be favorable was apparent in Arteta’s tone as he remarked, “The worrying aspect is the discomfort he experienced leading to his exit and the pain he was enduring.”
During the game, Arsenal seized a numerical advantage starting in the 61st minute due to a red card issued to Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot.
However, they could only manage to score a single goal, with a deflected effort from defender Gabriel.
Just two days prior, Arsenal suffered a 2-0 defeat against Newcastle in the first leg of the English League Cup semifinals.
With the absence of Bukayo Saka due to a hamstring issue compounded by Jesus’ likely extended absence, Arsenal may feel the pressure to explore the transfer market for offensive reinforcements.
Arteta acknowledged the team’s struggle, stating, “We miss contributions from various players.”
He also emphasized his dedication to supporting the current squad, saying, “I understand the concerns, but I cannot appreciate our players any more than I already do, and my focus is on getting them to perform at the highest level.”