Mikel Arteta advises underperforming Arsenal player on what it takes to earn more playing time – EPL Mikel Arteta advises underperforming Arsenal player on what it takes to earn more playing time – EPL
Mikel Arteta advises underperforming Arsenal player on what it takes to earn more playing time – EPL

October 19, 2024

Mikel Arteta advises underperforming Arsenal player on what it takes to earn more playing time – EPL

Credit to English Premier League Image Gallery

Mikel Arteta has emphasized that Gabriel Jesus must “earn the right to play more” as the Brazilian forward strives to regain his top form and secure his first goal of the season. Arteta’s comments reflect the competitive nature of the squad, highlighting the need for players to consistently demonstrate their value to earn playing time. Jesus, who was once a key player for the team, now finds himself in a position where he must work hard to reclaim his place in the starting lineup.

So far this season, the striker has made just one start in the Premier League, a stark contrast to his usual prominence on the pitch. Additionally, he is still on the hunt for his first goal after appearing in eight matches across all competitions. This goal drought has undoubtedly added pressure on Jesus, who is known for his scoring ability, as he seeks to contribute more significantly to the team’s success in both domestic and European competitions.

Despite being a former Manchester City forward and displaying his talent during pre-season by netting a few goals, Jesus has struggled to find the back of the net in a competitive match since January. His last goal came during a victory against Nottingham Forest, which adds to the urgency for him to break his scoring drought and help his team in crucial matches as the season progresses.

Meanwhile, Kai Havertz has emerged as a more effective option in attack, leading to Jesus taking on a more peripheral role in recent matches. Nevertheless, Arteta has expressed satisfaction with the 27-year-old’s efforts and attitude.

The focus now is on continuing to work diligently and capitalizing on opportunities as they arise, which may come during the match against Bournemouth on Saturday evening.

‘He came on in a great shape, probably in the best condition he’s been with us,’ said Arteta of Jesus. ‘He was flying in pre-season and unfortunately he got that injury [groin] straight away that affected him for a few weeks.

‘He put again a lot of work into it to come back and now he needs to get the rhythm. He’s playing a few games, he’s started two games in a row versus Atalanta and Bolton, he’s come on against Southampton.

Credit to English Premier League Image Gallery

‘So yeah, he’s there. Now he needs to earn the right to play more. He’s got our full support, he’s a player that can play in various positions and he’s a really important player for us.’

Jesus will be eager to seize an opportunity against Bournemouth on Saturday, particularly as several Arsenal players are dealing with fitness concerns following the international break.

Martin Ødegaard continues to be sidelined due to an ankle issue, while Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli are all struggling to regain full fitness but may still be available for selection this weekend.

When asked for an update on Saka’s condition during a press conference on Friday, Arteta responded, “It’s not a serious injury. He is progressing very well. He might have been fit enough to participate in the second game for England.”

Credit to English Premier League Image Gallery

‘He’s done some stuff over the last few days. We are hopeful. We have training this afternoon so let’s see if he can make it on time.’

On Havertz, Arteta added: ‘He had a few issues but we’re dealing with it. He’s been absolutely brilliant.

‘He has good communication with the national team manager. Again, if he trains well today he has a good chance to play tomorrow.’

Regarding Martinelli, he said: ‘Gabby only landed yesterday afternoon,’ Arteta said. ‘He went outside a bit to see how he’s feeling, today he will step up and we can see.

‘We have to decide if we want to take a risk because I know he will say he is okay.’

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Katarzyna Nowak

Katarzyna Nowak is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience in editorial content, news reporting, and cricket sportsbook app reviews. As an author for Latest Football News, she combines her deep understanding of the sports betting industry with a passion for cricket, delivering insightful and accurate content that keeps readers informed and engaged.