Gabriel Jesus has made it clear to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta that he’s frustrated with his limited playing time this season.
Despite being a key forward for the team, Jesus has only started five matches so far, with just one of those appearances in the Premier League.
His disappointment is understandable, as he, along with many of his teammates, is eager for more opportunities on the field.
In the past month, Jesus has only clocked 39 minutes in the Premier League.
Though he has been utilized in every League Cup game and started two Champions League matches, his Premier League appearances have been sporadic.
In Arsenal’s recent 2-1 Champions League loss to Inter Milan, Jesus remained on the bench until halftime, marking another instance where he wasn’t in the starting lineup.
This defeat was Arsenal’s second in a row and continued a worrying trend, as the team has failed to score in three out of their last six matches.
So far, Jesus has managed just one goal and one assist this season, both achieved during Arsenal’s League Cup victory over Preston North End last week.
Across all competitions, he has accumulated 480 minutes on the pitch, roughly equal to five full matches, out of Arsenal’s total of 16 fixtures this season.
Although frustrated, Jesus has taken a professional approach and emphasized that he has no intention of causing issues within the club.
Instead, he’s committed to working hard during training sessions and capitalizing on any game time Arteta does offer.
With Arsenal’s upcoming clash against Chelsea, Jesus remains hopeful for more minutes.
Following Arsenal’s defeat to Inter, Jesus spoke to TNT Sports Brasil, stating, “I think all players, not just me, want more minutes on the pitch.
I won’t be a disruptive presence at the club. I’ll keep proving my value in training, and whenever I’m called upon in games, I’ll give it my all and have faith that things will turn around.”
He went on to explain his perspective, saying, “I’ve always been clear that I want to improve, give my best, and help Arsenal succeed.
Of course, my current situation isn’t ideal or how I’d prefer it, but I’m putting in the effort every day to earn more minutes.
Whether I play more is ultimately up to the coach, but I’m focusing on my training and mindset to make the most of my chances.”
While he’s confident in his abilities, Jesus acknowledges that Arsenal’s competition for places is fierce.
“I have confidence in my potential, and I know the competition for my position is intense.
Still, I’m confident I can contribute significantly to the team,” he remarked.
It’s worth noting that other Arsenal players, such as Jorginho, Raheem Sterling, Jakub Kiwior, and Oleksandr Zinchenko, have also seen limited playing time, as have academy talents like Ethan Nwaneri and Miles Lewis-Skelly.
Meanwhile, players including Mikel Merino, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Martin Ødegaard have had restricted appearances due to injuries.
Despite the fierce competition for spots in the lineup and a few players’ struggles with injuries, Jesus remains optimistic and determined to increase his playing time through hard work and persistence.
His focus is clear: keep training hard, stay positive, and prove his worth whenever the opportunity arises.
