Arsenal legend, Gilberto Silva has tipped the club striker, Gabriel Jesus to return to the starting XI despite his injury issues.
He believes that his countryman will bounce back to replace Kai Havertz as Mikel Arteta’s main man up front if he remains fit.
Jesus’ time at Arsenal has been riddled with injuries since his arrival from Manchester City in 2022.
The Brazil International was sidelined for three months in his debut season at the club due to a knee injury.
After Havertz joined the Gunners from Chelsea, the Brazilian faced competition for his spot in the starting XI.
Jesus did not play as much as 16 games for Arsenal through injury last season.
Meanwhile, Havertz hit his stride, scoring and making important assists for the Gunners.
“Jesus has suffered a lot with injuries and that really gets in the way,” Silva said via Metro.
“You break your rhythm and you always have to start over. It’s a huge challenge for any player.
“But injuries have had a big impact on Jesus’ loss of space, as he was out of action for a long time.
“It also opened up space for Havertz, who played in positions where Jesus would have played. He ended up doing well there.
“However, as a nine, Jesus has the potential to do more if he’s healthy. But Havertz came in so well that many people didn’t even think about his absences.”
EPL: Gilberto Silva names player to replace Kai Havertz in Arsenal’s XI
