Gabriel Jesus claims his injury issue doesn’t “look that big” after undergoing physio tests in Seville.
The Brazilian was forced off with ten minutes left in Spain after scoring for the Gunners as they saw off the La Liga outfit to record their second win from three Champions League games. Arsenal have struggled with injury problems this term and there were immediate fears that Jesus could add to their woes.
The striker came out after the game and delivered positive news, suggesting that early tests hinted at a minor issue. A scan is now scheduled but Jesus remains confident that the hamstring issue which ended his night prematurely is nothing to worry about.
He told TNT Sports: “I felt something. Let’s see. I did some tests with the physio, it looks not that big, but let’s see. I have a scan, maybe tomorrow. I’m pretty sure it will be nothing.”
Mikel Arteta admits he was immediately concerned about his forward, who spent periods of last season out through injury. Jesus, again, underlined his quality with a brilliant solo goal to double Arsenal’s lead and his manager hailed his moment of quality.
“Really happy with that part – big games for big players, and he needed to produce those moments to win in stadiums like this,” he said. “He’s done it, and obviously, he opened the game for us in a great way. And then, we’re really sad because he felt something in his hamstring, and he had to come off and I’m worried about that.”
Arsenal won their opening European outing at home to PSV but suffered a surprise defeat last time at Lens. They have been handed a favourable group and are firmly expected to make the knockout stages, where people like Jesus, who have Champions League experience, will be key.
Arteta added on the Brazilian’s contributions: “He came here for a reason; he changed our world. He’s brought so much belief and energy to the team, and he needs to step into those moments. That’s why he played, and he’s done that. That’s when a player becomes accountable to the team, and the team relies on those players to win games.
“We need players like this. You want to play, go to Manchester City, then come to Stamford Bridge, then coming here; that’s the level we are at right now. To come here and win, it’s a big credit to the boys.”
