Mikel Arteta has noted a significant improvement in striker Gabriel Jesus’s performance since last season, with the Brazilian putting on an impressive display against Bayer Leverkusen.
Jesus, who only managed to score four goals in 27 Premier League appearances last season, showcased his abilities with a fantastic finish against the Bundesliga champions on Wednesday.
Following his return from a knee injury, the 27-year-old struggled to find the back of the net in his last 10 league outings, allowing Kai Havertz to shine in the number nine position in his absence.
Despite this, Arteta has been pleased with Jesus’s performances during pre-season but has challenged him to maintain consistency throughout the upcoming season.
Arteta stated, “I noticed something different about him from the very beginning, after speaking with him at the end of last season. There was a change in his energy, his appearance, and his movement. He really shows great determination.”
“Now, the focus is on achieving that consistency and delivering in any situation, against any opponent, in any formation, on any given day, be it every three days, for 90 minutes, 30 minutes, or 70 minutes.”
“If he can perform under those circumstances, it bodes well for him.”
Inch-perfect from Gabby
Check out the highlights from tonight’s 4-1 victory
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 7, 2024
The match against Xabi Alonso’s team marked the return of Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka to the first-team setup after their successful Euro 2024 campaign with England.
However, there was no sign of Jurrien Timber and the new £42 million signing, Riccardo Calafiori, with Arteta providing an explanation for their absence.
Arteta explained, “Jurrien experienced some discomfort in his foot in recent days, and given the time he has been out, we didn’t want to take any chances with him.”
“As for Riccardo, a lot has happened to him in just one week! He has joined a new environment with different methods and training, so we are carefully managing his integration to ensure it is done in the best possible way.”
“Hopefully, he will be ready to play some minutes on Sunday.”
Arsenal will wrap up their pre-season preparations with a match against Lyon this weekend before kicking off their Premier League campaign against Wolves at the Emirates Stadium six days later.
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