Ian Wright has leapt to the defense of Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus and called on fans to support him with the club bound to “need him at some point”.
Jesus has been with the Gunners since his arrival from Manchester City in the summer of 2022.
The Brazil international scored 11 goals and provided seven assists in 33 appearances in all competitions during his first campaign at Arsenal.
However, since then, he has registered just eight goals and eight assists in 44 outings, while he is yet to score a single direct goal in eight appearances this season.
As a result, Jesus has lost his place as Arsenal’s starting No.9 to Kai Havertz, while Leandro Trossard has also covered in that position.
Naturally, given the position he plays, Jesus has also been heavily criticized for his lack of output late in the third, with many feeling that Arsenal need deep in the transfer market for a resounding new striker.
Ian Wright leaps to the defense of Gabriel Jesus
Arsenal legend Wright has called on fans to get behind Jesus, who he believes still has a big role to play for Mikel Arteta in the Premier League title race this season.
“I can say something about Gabriel Jesus because I feel the need to support him right now. I really, really do,” Wright said on the Wrighty’s House Podcast (via Football. London).
“I know there’s a feeling that maybe we’re over it, but remember when Gabby came in, he was a leveller, he leveled us. Arsenal are at a certain level now, but we’re going to need him at some point.
“I think it’s important at the moment that Arsenal fans support him. They need to get behind him.
“Don’t get frustrated with the way he plays. He’s pushing hard right now and we’re going to need him.
“We’ve got to make sure we give him confidence, because he’s earned this (the Premier League) four times. He has been stuck in many situations before. Hearing the rumblings and the way the fans are… please man support this guy and stick with him.
“He wants to do really well. It’s not happening right now, but he needs support, he really does.”
Top photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images
