Mikel Arteta is sweating on Gabriel Jesus injury he sustained at International duty during Brazil clash Against Cameroon in ongoing Qatar 2022 World Cup.
Arsenal prepare for the Premier League restart – but question marks remain over a few of his players.
Gabriel Jesus departed the World Cup early with a bad knee injury while Ben White also left Qatar ahead of schedule.
A more long-term fitness worry is Emile Smith Rowe, who last played in early September.
Next up for the Gunners is a Dubai friendly with AC Milan before they host Juventus and return to competitive action against West Ham.
Ben White
White left England’s World Cup camp on November 30 for a personal matter, Arsenal stated they were behind their defender all the way.
Gareth Southgate has refused to comment on speculation over the reason White went home but he is nonetheless now with the Gunners’ squad in Dubai.
Having posted “we back baby” to his social media on Monday night, White is expected to be in contention to make his playing return against AC Milan on Tuesday.
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Gabriel Jesus
The Brazilian injured his knee playing in Brazil’s final group game against Cameroon, ending his participation in the tournament as he required surgery.
On December 7, Jesus underwent an operation which was described as a “success” by his club.
Brazil boss Tite denied claims the injury was a problem for the player ahead of the World Cup.
Reports have suggested a three-month lay-off for Jesus, meaning a return in early March, however Arteta has refused to put a timeframe on his recovery.
Arteta:
“We’ll have to take it day by day, week by week and see [where] it takes us.”
Emile Smith Rowe
Surgery on a long-term groin injury has meant a spell on the sidelines since September for 22-year-old midfielder Smith Rowe.
Despite travelling to Dubai to continue his rehabiltation, he will not feature in either of Arsenal’s remaining friendlies, or in the Premier League until after the New Year.
Areta recently provided an optimistic update of Smith Rowe’s fitness with a possible playing return in January.
Arteta:
“We are giving him time – he’s getting closer and closer. So hopefully in the next few weeks, we’ll be able to see him.”
