Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus on the Cusp of Return in Champions League Showdown

Image Source: Internet

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus is on the verge of making a long-awaited return to action in the Champions League, despite a lengthy injury layoff. Jesus has been sidelined since January after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury, but has been making steady progress in his rehabilitation. The 28-year-old has been participating in training sessions and has been an unused substitute in recent matches. Arteta praised Jesus' dedication, saying that the striker has been pushing himself every day to accelerate his recovery. "Gabi has been pushing every single day and he kept telling everybody 'I am going to be earlier, earlier, earlier' and he has done it," Arteta said. However, Arteta also announced that several key players will be missing from the squad, including Declan Rice, who is ill, and Leandro Trossard, who suffered a new injury. Rice was not able to travel with the team, while Trossard's injury is not expected to keep him out for an extended period. Jesus' return is a welcome boost for Arsenal, who are looking to maintain their 100% record in the Champions League. Arteta believes that the team's ability to quickly bounce back from a recent setback at Villa Park is a testament to their strength and resilience. 'Absolutely, especially when you play a competition like the Champions League and how much we want to continue to do the job that we have started in the first five games,' Arteta said.