Gabriel Jesus has expressed his opinion on the moment when Arsenal’s hopes of winning the title faded away last season, pointing out a timely injury to one of the club’s key players.
During an appearance on the Denilson Show, hosted by the eponymous World Cup winner, Jesus openly acknowledged that Arsenal’s previously sturdy defence started conceding more goals following William Saliba’s back injury, which ruled him out of the latter stages of the campaign.
Gabriel Jesus says that the moment Arsenal lost the league last season was when William Saliba got injured. “When he plays, we concede few goals, when he doesn't play, the number (goals conceded) increases.”
— Renato (@orehnato) July 5, 2023
Arsenal’s Promising Campaign Fades In The Final Stretch
Throughout the 2022-23 season, the Gunners were considered the favourites to claim the Premier League trophy, holding the top position for the majority of the campaign, marking their potential to lift the title for the first time in 19 years.
However, a series of disappointing results towards the end of the season and a significant defeat at the hands of their rivals Manchester City ultimately prevented them from achieving the English crown. Despite common assumptions of inexperience or mental weakness during the crucial stage of the season, Jesus, a seasoned champion with Manchester City, insisted that the absence of one of his teammates due to injury played a pivotal role.
William Saliba’s Future At The Emirates Stadium Amid The Praises From Gabriel Jesus
Saliba’s notable performances for Arsenal had attracted the attention of other teams, with Paris Saint-Germain being among the rumoured interested parties, especially considering his contract would expire next summer.
However, the 22-year-old relieved the concerns of Gunners’ fans by signing a new, according to a report from Daily Mail, lengthy contract extension, ensuring his stay at the club for an additional four years. Fans were further encouraged to witness his presence during pre-season training when Mikel Arteta’s squad returned to London Colney earlier this week.
The French player could be observed engaging in light ball exercises on the training field and participating in physical training sessions in the gym as he takes steps towards regaining full fitness.
