Arsenal confirm major Gabriel Jesus injury blow as Gunners 'step up' striker search

The Gunners experienced a disappointing outing in Sunday's third-round tie, crashing out on penalties despite playing around 50 minutes against 10 men.

To make matters worse, Arsenal were dealt an injury blow when Jesus was stretchered off in the first half at the Emirates Stadium.

The Brazilian forward went to the ground holding his knee after making a challenge on Man United midfielder Bruno Fernandes.

It was reported on Tuesday morning that Jesus had sustained an ACL injury, although Mikel Arteta was reluctant to confirm those reports when he was questioned by reporters ahead of Wednesday's North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.

Arsenal confirm Gabriel Jesus ACL injury

However, Arsenal have since confirmed Arteta's worst nightmare, announcing that Jesus damaged his ACL and will require surgery.

In a statement, the Gunners said: "Further to being substituted during our match with Manchester United on Sunday, Gabriel Jesus has received extensive assessments, scans and specialist reviews which have confirmed that he has sustained an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

"Gabby will undergo surgery in the coming days and will soon begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme.

"We will continue to keep everyone updated with Gabby's recovery, with everyone at the club fully focused on supporting Gabby to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.

Jesus, who is expected to miss the rest of the season, has joined an injury list which features fellow attackers Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri.

Jesus step up striker search

Arsenal were already believed to be considering the possibility of signing a new striker due to their lack of options in the number nine position.

However, the need for a new forward has only grown stronger following the news that Jesus is out for an extended period.

As it stands, Arteta is left with Kai Havertz as his only senior option to play as a centre-forward, but the Arsenal boss will hope to bolster the position before next month's transfer deadline.

According to Sky Sports News, Arsenal are 'working hard' to recruit a new striker before the transfer window shuts on February 3.

The Gunners have been linked with a number of names, including Juventus' Dusan Vlahovic, Paris Saint-Germain's Randal Kolo Muani and Lille's Jonathan David.

Written by

Ben Sully