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Mikel Arteta has provided an update on Gabriel Jesus’ injury.
Earlier this week news emerged that Arsenal forward Jesus, who was signed for £45million last summer, had picked up a thigh injury while at the World Cup with Brazil.
The forward has been ever-present in the Premier League for the Gunners this term, scoring five goals in the club’s 14 league games.
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Though he has been on a goal drought dating back to October, he has been a key cog in Arteta's system.
The 25-year-old’s absence will come as a bitter blow for the Arsenal manager, whose side are currently top of the Premier League, some five points clear of last season’s champions Manchester City.
Arteta’s side dispatched Lyon 3-0 in a mid-season friendly last night, after which the Arsenal boss provided an update on the Brazilian’s injury.
Gabriel Jesus absence
After Jesus’ injury was revealed, reports emerged that the player could be out of action for up to three months.
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However, when asked to give a time frame for the player's absence, Arteta said, via Sky Sports: “No. Obviously, we know that he needed some intervention in the knee, and we will have to take (it) day by day, week by week and see, where it takes us.”
In the short term, Eddie Nketiah will need to fill the void left by the Brazilian. However, with the January transfer window just around the corner, it is likely Arsenal will dip into the market.
Asked about the chances of a Jesus replacement being signed, Arteta responded: “Where it affects us is who we are as a team because he gives us so much.
“So what we can do after that, when we know a little bit the timescale and when we can have him back, we will look at the options, and try to make the right decision.”
Featured Image Credit: ShutterstockTopics: Football, Arsenal, Gabriel Jesus, Injury, Transfers