New Delhi: Arsenal’s search for a reliable goal-scorer has been a hot topic in recent weeks but Gabriel Jesus may have just silenced the doubters. After a challenging run in front of goal, the Brazilian forward has roared back to form netting five goals in just three days, a hat-trick against Crystal Palace in a midweek Carabao Cup clash, and scored two first-half goals in a thumping 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
In a season where Arsenal’s title ambitions demand consistency, Jesus’ performances could not have come at a better time. He has offered a timely reminder to everyone about the quality he brings to Mikel Arteta’s squad not only as a finisher but also as a dynamic forward who contributes across the pitch. As Arsenal navigates a demanding period of fixtures Jesus seems poised to take center stage and lead the attacking unit.
Gabriel Jesus has gone from not scoring a Premier League goal for a whole year to scoring five goals in two games.
He’s back, he means business and we really need him.
I never doubted him. pic.twitter.com/j4yqRkjDql
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) December 21, 2024
Back in form with a smile
Jesus wasted no time in reminding Palace of his threat as he opened the scoreline after just six minutes, firing past the goalkeeper after Bukayo Saka’s cross got deflected into his path. The 27-year-old then doubled the Gunners lead with a sublime effort into the top corner leaving goalkeeper Dean Henderson rooted to the spot. While Ismaila Sarr briefly leveled for Palace, Jesus’ second goal restored Arsenal’s dominance, setting the tone for an emphatic 5-1 victory.
Unbeaten in London derbies for 2024 😎
Check out the highlights from tonight’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace 📺 pic.twitter.com/1rnVmuBHss
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 21, 2024
His confidence was evident and the striker attributed his performance to playing with joy. “When I play with a smile on my face everything is different,” said Jesus after the game. The Brazilian seems to have rediscovered the spark that made him a key signing for Arteta, and his numbers back it up. With five goals in two games also from only 10 attempts, Jesus has matched his tally from his previous 45 appearances for Arsenal.
Finding the perfect balance
While goals are now flowing, Jesus’ game remains all-rounder. Against Palace, his touch map highlighted his versatility with 12 of his 40 touches coming inside his own half. Yet he was also Arsenal’s most dangerous player in the final third registering more attempts and shots on target than any teammate.
Despite this added emphasis on scoring Jesus remains a tireless worker. He has covered nearly 10 miles and completed 345 intensive runs he led the team in energy and effort. Among Gunners players, only Martinelli was involved in more duels than Jesus’ 13 at Selhurst Park but the latter has won six duels out of 13 he proved instrumental in both attack and defense.
Gabriel Jesus’ game by numbers vs. Crystal Palace:
6 touches in opp. box
6 duels won
5 shots
3 shots on target
3 aerial duels won
2 goals
1 woodwork hit
1 foul won
He loves playing the Eagles. 😍 pic.twitter.com/ezMqbeeJQG
— Squawka Live (@Squawka_Live) December 21, 2024
I know I can score…
Arsenal’s hopes of finding a consistent striker may rest on whether Jesus can maintain this level of performance. His ability to balance poacher-like instincts with relentless work across the pitch makes him a unique asset. For a team that thrives on fluid attacking football Jesus’ all-around game fits perfectly into Arteta’s system.
His renewed hunger for goals suggests he is ready to take on the responsibility. “I know I can score,” he said. “I just have to put myself in a good position to finish the action, like today.” If he continues to deliver on both ends of the pitch Arsenal might not need to look for another striker after all.
As the Gunners head into a busy stretch of the season Jesus’ rediscovered form could be the key to unlocking their potential. For now, one thing is clear Arsenal’s No. 9 has found his rhythm and the goals are flowing once more.
After a challenging period, Gabriel Jesus scores twice in Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Crystal Palace. Is this the start of something big? Find out how he rediscovered his form. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
