Arsenal’s ambitious transfer window has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, with the Gunners splashing out a staggering £204m to bolster their squad for the 2025/26 Premier League campaign. However, the lavish spending has left several players nervously glancing over their shoulders, with one high-profile star now facing the prospect of a dramatic exit. In a stunning twist, club icon Alan Smith has urged Arsenal to part ways with their £45m signing, Gabriel Jesus, prompting heated debates among fans and pundits alike.
Gabriel Jesus: A Rollercoaster Journey at the Emirates
Since arriving from Manchester City in 2022 for £45m, Gabriel Jesus has been a polarizing figure at Arsenal. The 28-year-old Brazilian striker has contributed 26 goals in 96 appearances across all competitions, showcasing flashes of brilliance but struggling with consistency due to persistent injuries. A serious knee injury last season curtailed his campaign, limiting his impact and raising questions about his long-term future at the Emirates Stadium.
With Arsenal’s recent acquisition of former Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres for a hefty fee, the competition for places in Mikel Arteta’s attacking lineup has intensified. Kai Havertz’s emergence as a reliable forward has further clouded Jesus’ role in the squad. Alan Smith, speaking to Metro, didn’t mince words when discussing the striker’s precarious position:
“I think somebody like Gabriel Jesus might go given his track record with injuries. He might be one that you say, thanks, and try and move him on, get a bit of money in. Obviously, with Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz, there might not be too many opportunities for him this season.”
Smith’s comments have sparked a firestorm among Arsenal supporters, many of whom still admire Jesus for his work rate and versatility, even if his goal-scoring numbers haven’t matched expectations.
Jesus’ Defiant Stand Amid Exit Rumors
Despite the growing speculation, Gabriel Jesus remains defiant. Earlier this year, the Brazilian spoke candidly about his determination to fight for his place at Arsenal. In January, he told reporters:
“I keep working and everyone at the club can tell how I work every day, not just me but everyone. I don’t give up and it is not easy to play for a big club like Arsenal. Now I can score and I am very happy – I want to keep scoring to help the team.”
Jesus, who is under contract until the summer of 2027, has shown glimpses of his quality when fit, but his ongoing recovery from a knee injury has kept him sidelined, further fueling doubts about his immediate future. As Arsenal prepare for their season opener against Manchester United at Old Trafford, Jesus is unlikely to feature, casting further uncertainty over his role in Arteta’s plans.
Smith’s Advice: Keep Trossard and Martinelli
While Smith advocates for moving Jesus on, he has urged Arteta to retain wingers Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli, despite interest in Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo. Both Trossard and Martinelli have been integral to Arsenal’s attacking setup, with Trossard’s versatility and knack for scoring crucial goals making him a fan favorite. Martinelli, despite an inconsistent 2024/25 season, remains a player with immense potential.
Smith explained:
“I would be tempted to keep Leandro Trossard because he’s a versatile player who’s done well and scored important goals. I don’t think you’d want to lose him. And the same with Martinelli actually – he didn’t have the best of seasons, but I think you definitely want to keep him.”
Fan Reactions: Shock and Division
The suggestion to offload Jesus has left Arsenal fans stunned, with social media platforms buzzing with reactions. Some supporters agree with Smith, pointing to Jesus’ injury record and the arrival of Gyokeres as justification for a potential sale. One fan posted on X: “Jesus has been unlucky, but we can’t keep waiting for him to stay fit. Gyokeres is the future.” Others, however, feel that letting go of a player with Jesus’ experience and leadership would be a mistake, especially with his contract still having two years to run.
As Arsenal gear up for a pivotal season, the decision over Jesus’ future could define their ambitions. Will Arteta stick with the Brazilian, or will the Gunners cash in on their £45m man to fund further squad improvements? With the transfer window still open, the coming weeks promise to be a rollercoaster for Arsenal fans.