Arsenal dealt blow, Gabriel Jesus ruled out of Aston Villa clash due to groin injury

Arsenal have been dealt a huge blow in their preparations for the Premier League contest against Aston Villa with Gabriel Jesus set to miss the clash on Saturday (Aug 24). Jesus, who started against Wolves last weekend won’t be in the matchday squad due to a groin injury. The Brazilian has been struggling for time during his Arsenal tenure and could miss a chunk of the start of the season. In his absence, Kai Havertz will be the No.9 as Mikel Arteta’s side search for back-to-back wins in the Premier League.

No Jesus for Arsenal

Having struggled with injuries, Jesus had avoided knee surgery in the summer and wanted to make a mark for the Gunners. However, he will again have to wait for his opportunity due to the latest setback with a groin issue. It is reported that he has not traveled to Villa Park and will instead carry out his rehabilitation in London. While the extent of the injury remains unclear, he could miss a chunk of fixtures in the coming days with an extended version of the Champions League and North London derby also taking place in September.

It is also reported that Arsenal will not head into the market for a new striker in the coming days as the deadline day approaches. The club is happy with the current set-up and will only add Mikel Moreno, who is expected to join over the weekend from Real Sociedad.

For Jesus, it is reported that he still has a future at the club but the hierarchy is likely to lose patience on having not delivered. If he is unable to deliver, the club could look for a striker reinforcement as they bid to end the club’s 20-year drought of a Premier League title.

Arsenal to travel to Aston Villa

On Saturday, Arsenal played against old foe Unai Emery who masterminded a league double over the Gunners last campaign. Emery’s team is considered one of the best in the league and has all the ingredients to take the three points. Interestingly, they also beat Manchester City at home last season, underlining their dominance.

For Arteta, revenge would not be served better as a defeat to Villa in April saw them end second best in the Premier League. However, they will be poised not to repeat the same mistakes considering they have improved in the defense and midfield in the course of the summer.

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