Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his excitement at the imminent return of several key players from injury, with striker Gabriel Jesus now back in first-team training after a lengthy absence.
Jesus Makes Long-Awaited Return
The Brazilian international has been sidelined since January but was pictured participating in full training sessions this week. The club confirmed his return through their official social media channels and website, where Jesus opened up about the frustration of his extended spell on the sidelines.
"I was in the best moment of my career," Jesus revealed. "I was looking after all the areas in my life and I was feeling absolutely great. But despite that, I picked up this injury. So now I know that it's never enough."
The 28-year-old emphasised the importance of managing his training intensity upon return, stating he needs to be "clever to be able to play all season" after previously always giving "100%".
Arteta's Cautious Approach
While delighted to have his experienced forward back in contention, Arteta stressed the importance of patience in Jesus's recovery process. The manager indicated that managing his minutes for the long-term is the priority, with no rush to return the Brazilian to full match fitness immediately.
"It's difficult to put a game," Arteta said when asked about potential return dates via the club's official website. "You know that we have the international break, which is a two-week break there, and after that I think we'll have some back. I don't know if it's going to be all of them, some of them, but we'll be quite close by then."
Boost for Premier League Leaders
Arsenal's impressive form this season has seen them maintain their position at the top of the Premier League despite dealing with one of the division's longest injury lists. The potential return of senior players like Jesus represents a significant boost as the team looks to maintain their title challenge.
Arteta expressed particular enthusiasm about having experienced players available for crucial fixtures ahead, including the North London derby. "I'm excited because they are tremendous players," he said. "I see them work every single day, how desperate they are to be part of the team, the huge boost that is going to be for the squad to have those players again after such a long, long time. I'm really happy that I think it's going to be very soon."
The news comes ahead of Arsenal's trip to face Sunderland, with the squad depth set to be tested throughout the busy winter period.
