Mikel Arteta has made it clear that Arsenal have no intention of selling Gabriel Jesus in January, despite speculation surrounding the striker’s future following his long-awaited return from injury. Jesus played his first minutes in nearly 11 months on Wednesday night, coming off the bench in Arsenal’s 3–0 Champions League win over Club Brugge.
The Brazilian has entered the final 18 months of his contract, prompting suggestions the club could consider offers next month. With Kai Havertz, Mikel Merino and Viktor Gyökeres all competing for the No9 role, some reports hinted Arsenal may be open to reshaping their attacking options.
But Arteta firmly shut down that idea.
Arteta: “I don’t consider selling him”
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s next league match, the manager stressed that Jesus remains an important part of his plans.
“I don’t consider that, especially with the situation we have right now. Gabby has a lot to offer to the team — and he has proven that straight away in the first minutes he was available.” — Mikel Arteta
Arteta praised Jesus’ determination to return after almost a year on the sidelines, emphasising how much work the striker has done behind the scenes.
“He has put so much in to be in this position again and now the focus is to be with us.”
Sharp return — and instant impact
Jesus looked lively during his 30-minute cameo against Club Brugge, striking the crossbar with one effort and providing the kind of movement Arsenal lacked during parts of the autumn. Despite missing 342 days of action, he appeared sharp, energetic and willing to challenge for his place.
Arteta expects that competitive edge to help raise standards across the squad.
“A player of his quality, a player that gives us so much — he has to be pushing and aiming for that starting role.”
Gyökeres competition welcomed — and patience urged
Jesus entered the pitch in place of Viktor Gyökeres, who made his first start since early November after recovering from a hamstring injury. The Swedish forward impressed earlier in the season, scoring six goals following his summer move from Sporting CP.
Arteta believes Gyökeres’ adaptation is moving in the right direction.
“We have to put the player in the best possible condition to explode and fulfil his potential. Before the injury he was in a great place. Now he’s starting to get momentum again.”
The manager stressed that attacking output depends heavily on chemistry with the players around him.
“Connections, interactions, understandings — that is what matters. The goals will come and we will be very pleased with him.”
Numbers That Tell the Story — Jesus Returns
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Time Out Injured | 11 months |
| Minutes vs Brugge | 30 |
| Shots | 3 |
| Hit the Woodwork | 1 |
source: UCL match data – 13 December 2025
Arsenal right to keep Jesus — especially now
In our view, the transfer plan for Gabriel Jesus message is the correct one. Although some supporters argue that Jesus has struggled for consistent goals since joining from Manchester City, the nuance is that his all-round play, pressing, creativity and movement still make him a valuable tactical option.
From covering Arsenal under Arteta, it’s clear the manager values versatility and intelligence in his forwards — and Jesus provides both. Selling him during a season with multiple competitions and ongoing injuries would create more problems than it solves.
A fair counterpoint: with 18 months left on his contract, Arsenal may eventually have to decide whether to extend or cash in. But January is not the moment.
Gyökeres and Jesus could complement each other
Arteta’s comments hint at long-term dual potential. Gyökeres is a more traditional penalty-box striker, while Jesus excels in roaming, linking play, and unsettling defensive lines. Arsenal may not view the two as competitors — but as options for different matches.
Key Insights
- Arteta confirms Jesus will not be sold in January.
- Jesus impressed on his return after 11 months injured.
- Competition up front includes Havertz, Merino and Gyökeres.
- Arteta believes Gyökeres will “explode” once fully adapted.
- Arsenal prioritising squad stability heading into the title chase.
What’s Next
Arsenal now look ahead to their next Premier League fixture against Wolves at home, with Jesus expected to build minutes gradually. Whether he returns to the starting XI immediately or continues as an impact option, Arteta is clear: Gabriel Jesus remains central to Arsenal’s plans.
👉 Arsenal fans — should the club extend Jesus’ contract, or see how he performs before deciding?
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