Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal FC, recently announced Gabriel Jesus’s early return to fitness after a lengthy recovery from an ACL injury. Jesus, who had been sidelined since January when he sustained the injury against Manchester United, has now been integrated back into the squad in time for the Champions League clash against Club Brugge.
Gabriel Jesus’s Return to the Squad
Jesus’s positive progression in training has led to his inclusion in Arsenal’s Champions League squad for their upcoming match. He did not participate in the previous game against Chelsea but is now ready to contribute after impressing the coaching staff with his dedication.
Impact of Max Dowman’s Injury
The Brazilian’s comeback comes as a result of Max Dowman’s recent injury setback. Arteta explained that Dowman had to be substituted last weekend due to injury and will be unavailable for several weeks. This unfortunate situation opened the door for Jesus’s return to the squad.
Arteta’s Comments on Injuries
Arteta discussed Dowman’s situation, stating, “It’s part of the journey. Injuries can occur when competing at such high levels.” He emphasized the importance of using this time to learn and grow, noting that Dowman should focus on improving his physicality and understanding of the game during his recovery.
Other Squad Updates
Arteta also provided updates on several other players missing the trip to Belgium. The list includes:
- Declan Rice: Illness kept him from traveling with the team after feeling unwell following the previous match.
- William Saliba: Remains unavailable, with no specific timeline for his return.
- Leandro Trossard: Picked up a minor injury, although his absence is not expected to be prolonged.
Looking ahead, Arsenal will aim to leverage their full squad, including the newly fit Jesus, as they prepare for crucial matches in both the Premier League and Champions League.
