Gabriel Jesus nears return, wants Arsenal stay

Gabriel Jesus has reaffirmed his intention to remain at Arsenal until the expiry of his contract in June 2027, as the Brazilian forward continues his recovery from a serious knee injury sustained earlier this year.

The 28-year-old underwent surgery on his left knee in January following an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and is now nearing a return to full fitness. Despite speculation linking him with a potential move in the next transfer window, Jesus told Brazilian outlet Placar, as reported by ESPN Brasil, that he remains committed to the North London club.

“Every day, the coach and the board say they’re eager for my return,” Jesus said. “I don’t see myself outside the club’s plans. I have a contract until 2027, and if it’s not renewed, I’ll still be here until then.”

Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in July 2022 for an initial £45 million and quickly became a central figure in Mikel Arteta’s system, valued for his work rate, pressing ability, and versatility across the front line. Arsenal have since added Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyökeres to strengthen their attacking options, but the club continues to view Jesus as an integral part of the squad.

The forward, now in his ninth Premier League season, has often spoken of his emotional connection with boyhood club Palmeiras, yet downplayed any immediate return to Brazil. “Palmeiras’ interest will always be there, both from them and from me,” he said. “But there’s been nothing formal. One day, I want to go back, but not now.”

Speaking to Arsenal’s matchday programme, Jesus described his rehabilitation process as the toughest of his career but expressed optimism about his progress. “I’m feeling great, my knee is responding very well,” he said. “It’s been too long. This has been the biggest injury of my life, but I’m close to the end of recovery. I just need to stay patient and not rush myself.”

Jesus’ return will offer Arsenal another attacking dimension as they compete on multiple fronts this season. With Arteta seeking greater depth and flexibility in forward areas, the Brazilian’s recovery could play a crucial role in maintaining the club’s title ambitions and European campaign.