Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus is set for an extended spell on the sidelines after scans confirmed he has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in his left knee.
The Brazilian striker was stretchered off during Arsenal’s FA Cup third-round tie against Manchester United on Sunday, with initial fears of an ACL rupture now confirmed following extensive assessments and specialist reviews.
Jesus will undergo surgery in the coming days and begin a lengthy recovery and rehabilitation programme. Arsenal have pledged to provide full support throughout his recovery and will offer updates on his progress.
This marks a cruel blow for the 27-year-old, who has dealt with knee issues in the past, though they have predominantly affected his right knee. His left knee, now the source of this major setback, has not previously been a cause for concern.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the situation during Tuesday’s press conference. “I don’t want to confirm anything until we have the final report this afternoon,” Arteta said, but he acknowledged the club’s significant worries over the injury.
The incident occurred in the 40th minute of the match at Emirates Stadium, with Jesus collapsing after a challenge and requiring immediate medical attention. Reports from Physio Scout, based on footage of the injury, had already raised suspicions of ACL damage, pointing to a knee collapse and tibia bone shift.
The confirmation of his injury deals a significant blow to Arsenal’s campaign as they navigate a crowded fixture list with an ever-thinning squad.
Jesus’ surgery and subsequent rehabilitation now begin, with Arsenal fans and the footballing world sending their best wishes for a full recovery.