Mikel Arteta praised Gabriel Jesus after his excellent performance during Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Manchester United in the United States.
Jesus, who missed out on a place in Brazil’s Copa America squad after struggling for game time at Arsenal, spent the summer polishing his fitness ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. The forward played 36 games last season but was hampered by repeated knee injuries.
His pre-season return has been the subject of much praise, beating rivals United on Sunday to fire his side into the game. The Gunners went on to beat the Red Devils thanks to Gabriel Martinelli’s goal.
Speaking after the win in Los Angeles, Arteta said: “It’s true [he has changed] and you see. The way he looks, his rhythm, his sharpness, the way he moves.
“And you can see in his eyes that there is a spark there again because he has a point to prove and that’s good. He looks really good. He looks really sharp. He changed a lot of things during the summer and he’s in good shape again.
“He has to be in that position to get the best out of himself. He’s seen that. And I’m very happy with what he’s shown again.”
Arsenal have been linked with a number of strikers during the transfer window after receiving criticism for their lack of attacking prowess last season. Arteta admitted that Jesus’ motivation to improve is ‘internal’ rather than an external battle for a place in the team.
“I think the inspiration must come from him,” he continued. “With his demands and the best way he can fit into the team. He has shown.
“He changed the energy and belief of that team and he has found it. If he is waiting for something outside to motivate him, I think it will be a very short time.
“If it’s something that happens internally, that’s going to last a long time and it’s going to be consistent. I hope so.”
Arsenal face Liverpool, led by new manager Arne Slot, on Thursday in their next pre-season game. The clash with the Reds is the last in the US before returning to the Emirates Stadium to host Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen.
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