The Brazilian striker has returned from World Cup with a long-term injury.
Mikel Arteta has revealed Eddie Nketiah will have a significant role in Arsenal’s plans to deal with Gabriel Jesus’ injury.
Jesus suffered a knee injury during Brazil’s World Cup match against Cameroon earlier this month. The Arsenal star underwent surgery shortly afterwards, starting a rehab process that will drag on until March.
The former Manchester City striker played a vital role in Arsenal’s march to the top of the Premier League table. As the Gunners look to keep their spot above Man City, Arteta admits he faces a difficult task to replace the Brazil international.
“It’s a huge blow for us, obviously,” Arteta said on Wednesday.
“He’s such an important player: he’s brought something very different to the team and it’s impossible to replace him. But we have other players, other alternatives and we’ll try to get that sorted. The transfer window is another option.
“I think [Jesus] is a unique player but Eddie [Nketiah] has incredible qualities as well for the way we want to play.
“We have other alternatives in that we can play Martinelli up front as well. We are currently a little bit short in terms of upfront positions but getting Emile [Smith Rowe] back is going to be a big one.”
Arsenal return to Premier League action when they take on West Ham next Monday.
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