Gilberto Silva backs underperforming Arsenal star to return to starting XI 'if he's healthy'

Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva believes Gabriel Jesus can return to Mikel Arteta's starting XI despite his injury issues. He has backed the Brazilian forward to replace Kai Havertz as Arteta's main man up front if he remains fit.

Jesus' tenure at the Emirates has been riddled with injuries since his arrival from Manchester City in 2022. The Brazilian was sidelined for three months in his debut season at the club due to a knee injury.

After Havertz's arrival last summer, Jesus faced competition for his spot in the starting XI while struggling to keep healthy as well. The 27-year-old missed 16 games for Arsenal through injury last season.

Meanwhile, Havertz hit his stride and aided his case in Arteta's preferred lineup. Jesus has endured a difficult start to this campaign too, missing two games after suffering a groin injury, while Havertz has already scored six goals in all competitions.

However, Silva insists that Jesus has the potential to be a better striker than the German forward. He said (via Metro):

"Jesus has suffered a lot with injuries and that really gets in the way. You break your rhythm and you always have to start over. It’s a huge challenge for any player."

"But injuries have had a big impact on Jesus’ loss of space, as he was out of action for a long time. It also opened up space for Havertz, who played in positions where Jesus would have played. He ended up doing well there."

"However, as a nine, Jesus has the potential to do more if he’s healthy. But Havertz came in so well that many people didn’t even think about his absences."

Gabriel Jesus has made just one Premier League start so far for Arsenal this season.

Journalist claims Arsenal could sell Gabriel Jesus next summer

Journalist Charles Watts believes Arsenal could part ways with Gabriel Jesus next summer if he doesn't turn things around this season. He insists the Brazilian forward has lost the confidence he once had on the pitch.

Speaking to Caught Offside, Watts stated that the former Manchester City forward has been poor with the ball at his feet in his recent performances. He said:

"Gabriel Jesus is clearly struggling for confidence right now. You can see the way he's playing. He's thinking about things too much and taking too many touches when he's in possession. When Jesus is at his best, he does things off the cuff. He creates chaos with his movement and his work rate. But right now he's bringing more confusion than chaos with his play."

Watts added on the Arsenal star's future:

"I think there's certainly a chance this could be his final season at the club, but obviously that's a decision that will taken in the summer should any suitable offers arrive."

Arsenal signed Jesus from Manchester City in 2022 for a reported £45 million. The Brazilian's contract with the Gunners runs until 2027.