Arsenal have spent the summer trying to improve their squad, with the North London club hoping to end their silverware drought in 2025-26.
The Gunners have finished second in the Premier League in recent seasons and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League, but making that final step to glory has eluded Mikel Arteta’s men.
Arsenal signed Viktor Gyokeres this summer in an attempt to add goals to their side, with the former Sporting Lisbon man improving strength in depth in the centre forward position.
However, another striker that Arsenal signed for big money is starting to feel like a forgotten man as a result.
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty ImagesGabriel Jesus falls down pecking order
Arsenal signed Gabriel Jesus for £45 million in 2022 and to much fanfare, with the Brazilian’s addition from Manchester City seen as quite the coup.
However, the South American attacker has struggled for fitness since moving to the Emirates Stadium and is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
Arsenal recently confirmed their Champions League squad and Jesus’ name was a notable omission, with the Brazilian still not ready to contribute for the Gunners.
While his return to the first-team fold is not seen as too far away, Jesus will surely be demoralised by the fact he is not in Arsenal’s European squad.
Arsenal fans haven’t seen best of Jesus
Jesus had his most productive season in England immediately after signing for Arsenal, with the 28-year-old contributing 11 Premier League goals and six assists in 26 matches in 2022-23.
However, the Brazil international has been less effective since, with fitness concerns limiting his time on the pitch and seeing him drop down the pecking order at Arsenal.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
The Gunners’ fans will know that Jesus can be a lethal weapon when fit and firing, and he is clearly an elite forward when in the mood.
If Arsenal are to win major silverware this season, getting the Brazilian back available and scoring goals would be a big boost for Arteta’s side.