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Mikel Arteta says Gabriel Jesus is going to be out for a few weeks

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has announced that Brazil international striker Gabriel Jesus will be out for a few weeks due to injury.

The former Manchester City was unavailable for selection as the Gunners took on AS Monaco in the Emirates Cup at the Emirates Stadium today.

Arteta revealed after the match that Jesus underwent a procedure this morning and will now spend some days on the treatment table.

“Unfortunately he had a little procedure this morning,” the Arsenal boss told reporters.

“He has had some discomfort in his knee that caused him some issues so they had to go in.

“He is going to be out for a few weeks.”

The news is the last thing the North London club need right now, and the striker will now miss the Community Shield match against Manchester City on Sunday.

The Gunners host Nottingham Forest on August 12 in their Premier League opener of the new campaign, and the Brazilian is expected to miss the match too.

Arsenal will have to rely on Eddie Nketiah until Gabriel returns to action, and the former England youth international has a chance to establish himself as a starter going forward.

The Hale End academy graduate grabbed the equaliser in the 1-1 draw against the Ligue 1 club today and will be keen to grab this opportunity with both hands.

The 24-year-old bagged four Premier League goals and one assist in nine starts and 21 substitute appearances last term.

Jesus, 26, started 24 league games last term, coming off the bench twice and ending the campaign with 11 goals and six assists.

Arsenal have been dealt a huge blow as a result of his injury, but Arteta can also call on Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard to lead the attack if need be.

The club could also decide to hold on to Folarin Balogun until the closing stages of the transfer window as a result of Jesus’ unavailability.

The United States international striker is expected to leave this summer and has already asked Arsenal to reduce their £45 million asking price amid an interest from Inter Milan.

However, the latest injury blow could see Arteta decide to hold on to him, and he could be given a chance at the club if he manages to hit the ground running when the season starts.

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