Mikel Arteta has suggested that Gabriel Jesus may receive his first start in 345 days during Arsenal’s upcoming Carabao Cup quarterfinal match against Crystal Palace.
Arsenal will host Oliver Glasner’s team at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, as Arteta aims to break a nearly six-year trophy drought.
Last season, Jesus scored a hat trick in Arsenal’s quarterfinal victory over Palace before they were eliminated by Newcastle in the semifinals.
The Brazil international endured an 11-month recovery after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
However, following three substitute appearances in recent wins against Club Brugge, Wolves, and Everton, Jesus could be ready to start against Palace, especially as Arteta prepares to rotate his squad for a busy schedule of six matches in 20 days.
If successful against Palace, Arsenal will face Chelsea in the semifinals.
“Yes, he is [ready to start], and you can see it,” Arteta remarked about the former Manchester City striker.
“You can observe it not only during games but in training as well; his eagerness is evident, so he certainly deserves a chance soon.
“It has been a really intense journey. When he joined us, he elevated the team’s belief, spirit, and energy, bringing a unique quality that was impressive.
“Unfortunately, he faced serious injuries that disrupted the consistency we need from a key player.
“But he is back now, and his fighting spirit and commitment to prepare at the highest level are remarkable. The team is united, and we need to take advantage of that.”
Jesus may replace Viktor Gyökeres, who, despite scoring from the penalty spot in Arsenal’s recent 1-0 victory over Everton, has not scored from open play in his last six appearances.
In the midfield, Declan Rice continues to impress, earning praise from Wayne Rooney, who describes him as the natural successor to Harry Kane for the role of England‘s captain.
Rooney watched Rice deliver another standout performance against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and commented on the BBC’s The Wayne Rooney Show: “I must say, Declan Rice is fantastic, and it was a joy to watch him on Saturday.
“He was everywhere on the pitch, and his decision-making, knowing when and where to pass the ball, plus the precision of his passes, was absolutely remarkable.
“While Harry Kane is currently the captain, Rice is likely the future captain for England. He’s the right choice for when Harry eventually retires, given his drive, personality, and the affection everyone feels for him.”