Fit-again Gabriel Jesus confident as Arsenal set sights on big season

Gabriel Jesus is relishing his return to full fitness after an 11-month injury absence and believes Arsenal have both the belief and momentum to achieve their ambitions this season.

The Brazilian forward feared the worst after suffering a serious knee injury during Arsenal’s FA Cup clash with Manchester United last January. His road back was long, but he returned to action in December and marked the occasion by scoring in a 4–1 victory over Aston Villa.

Now with 11 appearances under his belt in the 2025/26 campaign, Jesus has made it clear that staying fit is his primary objective.

Jesus explained that his focus is on maintaining his health for the remainder of the season, admitting injuries have previously disrupted his time in north London. He feels encouraged by the minutes he has been able to accumulate since returning and believes the club are managing his body in the right way, allowing him to contribute consistently again.

Arsenal currently sit top of both the Premier League and the Champions League league phase as they prepare to face Inter Milan at the San Siro.

Despite coming close to major honours in recent seasons, Jesus insists belief inside the squad remains unwavering.

He stressed that belief is essential at this level, pointing out that every player, club and supporter involved in the Champions League must believe they can go all the way. At the same time, he acknowledged the long road ahead and the need to approach every match with intensity and discipline.

Jesus believes Arsenal are in a strong position and that their consistency has put them in a promising place as the season reaches its most demanding phase.

Arsenal’s trip to Milan carries added significance after last season’s narrow 1–0 defeat to Inter in the Champions League, decided by a Hakan Çalhanoğlu penalty. Jesus remembers that match clearly and views it as a reminder of the elite standards required in Europe.

He highlighted Inter’s quality and organisation, describing them as one of the toughest opponents to face. Jesus also reflected on how difficult it is to define the best team in Europe, noting that football quickly punishes complacency when teams believe they are superior without proving it on the pitch.

With Arsenal challenging domestically and in Europe, Jesus sees the squad’s mindset as their biggest strength. He believes the team are approaching each match with a fighter’s mentality, focused on winning games first and assessing their achievements when the season concludes.

For Jesus personally, being fit, confident and available again feels like a victory in itself — and one that could prove crucial as Arsenal aim to turn belief into silverware.

Arsenal face Inter Milan at the San Siro as they look to secure their position ahead of the Champions League knockout stages, with Jesus expected to play an important role if fully fit.

Can a fully fit Gabriel Jesus be the difference-maker as Arsenal push for trophies on multiple fronts?