Gabriel Jesus played down injury in Arsenal’s win over Sevilla on Tuesday night and said he would “never ask to go off” despite manager Mikel Arteta saying he did.
Gunners had a great night in Seville with a 2-1 win that took them back to the top of the Champions League group.
Jesus played a key role in the win, setting up Gabriel Martinelli’s first goal for the north London side after a daring turn, then scoring a superb solo effort shortly after the game match begins.
But late in the game, after Sevilla had pulled a goal back and Arsenal were forced to play on the attack, Jesus went down clutching his hamstring after trying to pick up a loose ball and had to leave the field.
After the match, Arteta seemed particularly worried when Jesus immediately asked to come off, which did not sit well with the tireless striker.
“He immediately asked to be replaced, which is not good news because Gabi is absolutely not a player to do that,” Arteta told TNT Sports.
But Jesus now says it was Arteta’s decision to withdraw him, but says he still respects the manager’s wishes and seems quite optimistic about the injury, even hinting that there is probably won’t be “nothing”.
‘Exhausted? Yeah I was tired to be honest. But I never want to go out, you know?
‘Obviously I always respect what the manager decides but it was not the case, unluckily, unfortunately. But let’s see what it [the injury] is.’
Speaking even more positively about the injury, Jesus told TNT Sports: ‘I did some tests with the physio, looks not that big. But let’s see. I have a scan the next days, maybe tomorrow or the day after, let’s see how it is. But I’m pretty sure it will be nothing.’
Arteta was full of praise for Jesus’ performance in the win over Sevilla and feels he really stepped up at an important time for the Gunners.
‘He came here for a reason. I think he changed our world,’ said the Spanish coach.
‘He brought so much belief and energy to that team, he needs to step in in those moments. He’s done that. That’s when a player becomes accountable for the team.
‘We need those players to win games. If you want to play Manchester City, then go to Stamford Bridge, then come here – that’s the level we’re at right now. To come here and win, big credit to the boys.’
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