Arsenal to sell Jesus in January? Arteta responds to rumour

Tom Weber

Updated: 10 Dec 2024 19:27 GMT
3 min read

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal, 2024/25 — © IMAGO

Mikel Arteta has rubbished reports that Arsenal could sell Gabriel Jesus in January.

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The Brazilian is having another disappointing season. Jesus saw his influence wane last term following the arrival of Kai Havertz and this trend has continued in 2024/25.

It hasn't been all his fault, of course, as fitness issues have prevented him from establishing any kind of rhythm or momentum. This campaign was supposed to be different, with Jesus returning from pre-season fitter than ever.

However, a fresh injury quickly derailed his season and he has once more been reduced to primarily a substitute role. This has given rise to fresh speculation about his future, just as it had done already in the summer.

His former club Palmeiras had approached Arsenal in the previous window but their enquiry was swiftly rebuffed by the Gunners. Still, there has been talk that Jesus could be on the way out as Arsenal are said to have accepted that parting ways with Jesus would enable them to sign a better replacement.

Arteta on Jesus

Ahead of Arsenal's Champions League clash with Monaco, manager Mikel Arteta was quizzed about Jesus' future and role in the team and he made sure to brand any exit rumours as pure 'nonsense.'

"No, nonsense," the Spaniard said. "Like all strikers, they go through phases and moments. It’s true that that gap has become quite big but there are a lot of things that happened there. Injuries and not starting games that much."

Ultimately, however, Arsenal will keep the faith in their No.9. "His attitude has been really good. It always is. We’re going to support him as much as possible," the manager insisted.

Jesus is going nowhere in January despite the fact that he has only started two Premier League matches so far this season.