‘Really happy’ – Mikel Arteta confirms huge Arsenal injury boost ahead of Fulham clash
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Gabriel Jesus is available for the Gunners’ clash with Fulham on Saturday.
Jesus picked up a knee injury in the Community Shield at the end of July and he has missed Arsenal’s two opening Premier League fixtures.
His return comes as great news for Arteta, who has opted to use Eddie Nketiah as a centre-forward in his absence. He scored the winning goal in Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest, so it will be interesting to see if the manager drops him this weekend.
Speaking in a pre-match press conference, Arteta said he is delighted to see Jesus available for selection again.
“I was really happy. It was a big blow after the preseason he had to have surgery. He’s looking good. He’s ready to go,” Arteta said.
Arteta was then questioned on players who could leave Arsenal before the transfer window closes.
Folarin Balogun is one player heavily linked with a departure, and is expected to sign for AS Monaco on a permanent deal. Left-back Kieran Tierney is also close to securing a loan move to Real Sociedad.
On potential outgoings, Arteta added: “There are some movements happening. The last week is going to be busy. Nothing that we can announce at the moment.”
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The Arsenal boss commented on the controversy surrounding Spain FA president Luis Rubiales after he kissed Spain Women star Jenni Hermoso after they won the World Cup final. He was asked whether it takes away from the team’s achievement.
“Hopefully it doesn’t because I’m extremely proud of what they’ve done,” Arteta said.
“I don’t have the full details so sorry I cannot comment today. But it is sad that this is happening while everybody should be celebrating what they’ve done.”
Finally, Arteta was asked whether or not he thinks it’s fair that the Saudi Pro League’s transfer window closes two weeks after the Premier League’s.
Several PL players have made the switch to Saudi this summer, while Al Ittihad are currently pushing to sign Liverpool star Mo Salah.
“No because they’re a competitor now. I think we have to change that,” Arteta said.
Arsenal will hope to win their third consecutive game on Saturday when they face Fulham, who have won one and lost one of their first two fixtures this season.
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