Image source: theguardian.com
Gabriel Jesus said Arsenal are “getting closer” to winning trophies and reiterated his desire to stay at the club, despite being out of contract at the end of next season and having held no talks on an extension. The Brazil forward has returned after almost a year out with a knee injury and spoke ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League trip to Inter in Milan.
Gabriel Jesus says Arsenal are “getting closer” as they chase trophies
Jesus said he joined Arsenal “with a purpose” to win silverware and believes the team’s recent near-misses can be turned into success. The striker pointed to Arsenal’s three successive runners-up finishes in the Premier League as proof they have been close, adding he feels the squad is in good shape and capable of winning. He said the team are happy with their current form and position.
The 28-year-old also addressed his contract situation, confirming he has not yet held talks over a new deal. Jesus is out of contract at the end of next season but said his wish is to remain in north London because he has “unfinished business” at Arsenal. He added that his first target is to stay healthy after a spell in which injuries have limited his playing time.
Arsenal travel to face Inter at San Siro on Tuesday night needing only a point to ensure progression to the Champions League knockout stages. Arteta’s side go into the match top of the Champions League table after winning all six of their games. Jesus is the only member of Arsenal’s squad who has won the Premier League title, having collected four winners’ medals at Manchester City.
Arteta stressed the importance of avoiding two extra fixtures in the playoff round, with his side playing a fourth away match in succession across different competitions, a scenario described as the first time an English top-flight team has faced it. “That’s massive, we know that,” Arteta said. “If we win we know that’s going to be the case so let’s make it happen.”
