Gabriel Jesus’s resurgence has come just in time for Arsenal as the festive fixture pile-up begins to take its toll.
His League Cup hat-trick against Crystal Palace and a Premier League brace against the same opponents a few days later could not have been more perfectly timed.
After enduring a tough year plagued by injuries and inconsistent form, Jesus reminded everyone why Arsenal signed him as their leading man.
His midweek display in the League Cup, capped off by three different types of goals, was a masterclass in clinical finishing and positional awareness.
His quickfire brace in the league against Crystal Palace gave Arsenal the perfect start in a commanding 5-1 victory over the weekend
Jesus’ contribution was more than just goals. His movement, intelligence and sharpness brought a cutting edge to Arsenal’s attack, which had been missing in recent weeks.
“The first goal was very important,” Jesus said after the match. “As a number nine, I know the pressure is always on to score goals. Winning the three points was massive today.”
The Brazilian’s form could not have come at a better time for manager Mikel Arteta, who has had to contend with questions about his side’s attacking approach.
Arsenal’s failure to win their previous two league games had led to murmurs about predictability and a lack of bite in the final third. Jesus’s return to form has silenced those doubts.
Arteta praised Jesus, describing him as ‘a big asset for the team’. “The way he finished the actions, his movement – it’s a big message for the team that we have Gabi back at his best,” he said.
With Bukayo Saka sidelined due to a hamstring injury and a packed fixture schedule ahead, Jesus’ importance cannot be overstated.
Arsenal face games against Ipswich Town and Brentford over the Christmas period, and they will need him to maintain his scoring touch.
