Arteta explains investment in Gyokeres and updates Gabriel Jesus’ situation
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has defended the club’s €63 million (R$398 million) investment in Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres, calling him a “unique player” who can handle the pressure of leading the attack. Speaking to ESPN ahead of the Premier League opener against Manchester United, Arteta also provided a cautious update on Gabriel Jesus’ return from injury.
Why Arsenal Paid Big for Gyökeres
Signed from Sporting Clube de Portugal, Gyökeres inherits the iconic No. 14 shirt once worn by Thierry Henry. Arteta said the signing was driven by both the forward’s recent prolific form 97 goals for Sporting over the last two seasons and the club’s need to avoid the injury struggles that disrupted last year’s campaign.
“We brought in a unique player. His numbers speak for themselves. We had long-term injuries last season, and at this level, that’s unsustainable. Viktor has the personality and quality to handle the pressure,” Arteta stated.
Gyökeres, meanwhile, downplayed comparisons with Henry: “It’s not my intention to be compared to anyone. Of course, he was incredible, but he’s different from me. When I found out the number 14 was vacant, it was an easy choice.”
Gabriel Jesus Recovery: ‘Patience Needed’
Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus remains sidelined following surgery on his left anterior cruciate ligament in January. Arteta confirmed progress but urged patience: “The most important thing is that he recovers well. We still have months to go before we know how he’ll be after the injury.”
Arteta lamented losing Jesus at his peak last season, noting that the striker is on a “very strong training plan” and showing positive signs. “We need patience to get him back to his highest level,” he added.
High-Profile Start to the Season
Arsenal open their campaign on Sunday (17) against Manchester United at Old Trafford, 12:30 p.m. Brasília time. Gyökeres is expected to start, while Jesus remains unavailable.
Arteta views the fixture as an ideal motivator: “We start with hope and desire. We’ve worked hard to strengthen the squad and increase quality. It’s going to be an exciting season just look at the level of the teams and the competition.”
