Massive blow for Arsenal! Gunners confirm Gabriel Jesus requires surgery on ACL injury with Brazil forward out for rest of season

Jesus started during Arsenal’s FA Cup loss to Manchester United on Sunday but was forced off the pitch after just 41 minutes as he sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury on his left knee. The club has now confirmed through a statement that the forward will go under the knife dealing a significant blow to Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal wrote: "Further to being substituted during our match with Manchester United on Sunday, Gabriel Jesus has received extensive assessments, scans and specialist reviews which have confirmed that he has sustained an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

"Gabby will undergo surgery in the coming days and will soon begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme. We will continue to keep everyone updated with Gabby’s recovery, with everyone at the club fully focused on supporting Gabby to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible."

Since joining Arsenal from Manchester City in July 2022, Jesus has struggled to maintain consistent fitness. Injuries, including a knee problem sustained during the 2022 World Cup, had earlier hampered his ability to secure a regular spot in Arteta’s starting lineup. In this campaign, just when it seemed that Jesus was hitting top gear, netting six goals in his last seven appearances, the ACL injury has once again played spoilsport.

Jesus’ absence leaves Arsenal in a precarious position as they lack a recognized striker for the remainder of their Premier League title challenge. With Eddie Nketiah moving to Crystal Palace last summer and winger Reiss Nelson on loan at Fulham, the team’s attacking options are limited to Kai Havertz, who is not a natural striker. This void in the squad could have significant implications for Arsenal’s aspirations, especially as they compete on multiple fronts.

It has been reported that Arsenal are actively working to address their striker shortage in the January transfer window. The club had already been scouting potential additions before Jesus’ injury but now faces added urgency to secure reinforcements. The Gunners resume their Premier League campaign on Wednesday with a home fixture against Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby.