Gabriel Jesus Likely Out Long-Term Due to ACL Injury: Report

Synopsis
Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus is suspected to have ruptured his ACL, leading to an anticipated long-term absence. Manager Arteta expresses concern over the injury's severity, which compounds the team's ongoing injury crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Gabriel Jesus may have an ACL rupture.
- Long absence expected for the striker.
- Arsenal faces multiple injuries, including Bukayo Saka.
- Manager Arteta expresses significant concern.
- Gunners may seek attacking reinforcements in January.
London, Jan 14 (NationPress) Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus is feared to have suffered a rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament, leading to expectations of a lengthy absence from the pitch.
As detailed in a report from The Athletic, Jesus is anticipated to miss a significant amount of time due to this suspected ACL injury. Additional evaluations by specialists are scheduled for Tuesday to determine the severity of the injury.
During Arsenal's defeat to Manchester United in the FA Cup's third round, Jesus was carried off on a stretcher, contributing to the club's mounting injury woes.
The Brazilian forward had been alternating in the Arsenal lineup following a previous knee surgery in 2022. He appeared to have regained his form recently, netting six goals over the last four matches.
Manager Arteta expressed his concerns regarding Jesus's condition, labeling it a “significant worry” for the team. “It’s a big worry, that’s how I feel; he is experiencing considerable pain while touching his knee. It doesn’t look promising. I suspect it’s the other knee compared to his 2022 injury,” Arteta remarked post-match.
The Gunners are also without Bukayo Saka, who was in excellent form prior to his injury and is not anticipated to rejoin the first team until March.
Arsenal's season appears to be spiraling, having failed to win in their last three matches, trailing Liverpool by eight points in the league standings, losing 0-2 to Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup, and being eliminated from the FA Cup.
It remains to be seen whether they will seek reinforcements in the January transfer window to bolster their attacking options.
The report also noted that while the Gunners are exploring the market for a forward or winger, they must navigate the complexities of financial regulations.
“Initially, we need someone who can affect the team positively. Simply adding players won’t suffice; we require someone who can instantly enhance performance and provide what we currently lack. Achieving this in the market is quite challenging,” Arteta stated in a recent press briefing.