Mikel Arteta has fired a warning to Gabriel Jesus as the Brazilian ace edges closer to a return to the Arsenal squad after three months out.
The 22-year-old has been sidelined since the start of December with a knee injury, but is now back in full training and could be in contention for the Gunners’ Premier League clash with Leeds United on Sunday.
However, Arteta has warned Jesus that he will have to prove himself in training before he is considered for selection.
Speaking ahead of the game, the Arsenal boss said: “He’s been training with us for the last few days.
“He’s been out for a long time and he needs to prove his fitness and his quality in training.
“We will assess him and see if he’s ready to be involved in the squad.”
Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in the summer of 2020 and has made a positive start to life in north London, scoring four goals in 11 appearances.
He has been sorely missed in recent weeks, with Arsenal struggling for goals and languishing in mid-table in the Premier League.
Arteta will be hoping that Jesus can provide a spark to his side’s attack and help them climb the table.
The Spaniard has also been boosted by the return of Thomas Partey, who has been out since December with a thigh injury.
The Ghanaian midfielder is expected to be in contention for the Leeds game, and Arteta will be hoping that he can help to add some steel to the Arsenal midfield.
Arteta will also be hoping that Jesus can hit the ground running and help to fire Arsenal up the table.
The Brazilian has shown glimpses of his quality since joining the club, and Arteta will be hoping that he can rediscover his best form and help the Gunners to climb the table.
It remains to be seen whether Jesus will be ready to start against Leeds, but Arteta will be hoping that he can make an impact when he does return.
