Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said that he was impressed after seeing Gabriel Jesus this summer. The former Manchester City forward came under the microscope last season following his lacklustre performances.
The Gunners finished second in the Premier League once again but pushed the Cityzens all the way. Arteta has been lauded for the players he has brought on board.
The arrival of Kai Havertz saw Jesus relegated to the bench, with the German linking up with Leandro Trossard and captain Martin Odegaard. The Brazilian featured in 36 games last season, scoring eight goals.
Arteta said that Jesus has returned with a different energy this season and is hungry to make a mark. The Brazilian scored in the 38th minute of Arsenal's 4-1 mauling of Bayer Leverkusen in a friendly.
Arteta said (via the Daily Telegraph) about Jesus:
"The first feeling when I saw him (this summer). It was something different. I could sense it. The energy was different. The way he looks is different. The way he moves is different … he looks good."
The Gunners open the 2024-25 Premier League campaign against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday, August 17.
Arsenal leading race to sign Mikel Merino
Over the last few weeks, Arsenal have been linked to several high-profile players ahead of the new campaign.
The club were associated with Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez, but reports suggest that Atletico Madrid are closer to bagging his signature. As per ESPN, Real Sociedad's Mikel Merino has been heavily linked to the Gunners.
Arsenal are in dire need of midfielders. With Thomas Partey's best days arguably behind him and with Emile Smith Rowe departing to Fulham, midfield remains an area of concern for the manager.
In 45 appearances across competitions last season, the Spaniard managed eight goals and five assists for Merino. His presence would allow Odegard and Trossard to run forward while Declan Rice would be able to hold the centre of the pitch together.
