Arsenal have been slammed over plans to wear a special jersey in support of Gabriel Jesus ahead of the north London derby against Tottenham.
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Jesus nursing an ACL injuryArsenal wore special shirts during warm upTeammates eager to show solidarity with strikerFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
According to the the Gunners discussed wearing unique shirts featuring the Brazilian forward’s name, his No.9, and a 'get well soon' message ahead of the game, in solidarity with their sidelined team-mate after he suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament injury during their FA Cup defeat to Manchester United on Sunday. The severity of the injury means he will miss the remainder of the season, leaving his colleagues eager to show support in this difficult time. Mikel Arteta's men did ultimately don the special kits while warming up for the derby, including a message which read: "Stay strong Gabby".
AdvertisementGetty ImagesWHAT THE FANS ARE SAYING
While the gesture to honour Jesus is undoubtedly heartfelt, it has drawn criticism from rival fans.
@UnitedMax_ wrote: "Cringe club back again 🤣."
While @Common_SensePod wrote: "F*cks sake, he's not dead."
A Rangers fan, @GarryCarmody wrote: "The game couldn't be more gone if it tried."
Nonetheless, there were a couple of fans who welcomed the gesture.
@user84848384 wrote: "People are actually mad at showing support to a player who’s just suffered his like third major knee injury in a few years, you lot are so weird."
@xAlexTHFC seconded him and said: "That’s incredibly touching. What a beautiful club. Wow. Unbelievable. Hope you get through this terrible situation. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The loss of Jesus has left Arsenal in a vulnerable position as they approach a crucial stage of the Premier League season, as his absence creates a significant void in the team’s attacking line-up, which is already stretched thin. With Eddie Nketiah sold to Crystal Palace last summer and Reiss Nelson out on loan at Fulham, Arsenal’s options up front are limited. Kai Havertz, while capable, is not a natural striker, adding to the team’s challenges as they pursue the league title.
Getty/GOALWHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?
Arsenal’s return to Premier League action against Tottenham in the north London derby is a crucial test for Mikel Arteta’s side. With the added trouble of Jesus’ injury, the match is set to be a defining moment in the Gunners' season as they aim to chase down Liverpool, who are six points ahead of them in the title race.
