The latest word stemming from the Brazilian media on Saturday night has sparked widespread concern at Premier League leaders Arsenal.
This comes owing to an update on the wellbeing of striker Gabriel Jesus.
Confirmation of the injury suffered by ex-Manchester City man Jesus was of course first forthcoming earlier today.
After it was revealed that the 25-year-old had been dealing with pain in his right knee throughout Brazil’s final World Cup group stage outing versus Cameroon, the Selecao released a statement, confirming that Jesus’ participation at the tournament has been brought to a premature end:
The oft-maligned attacker has been joined on the sidelines by defender Alex Telles:
“Accompanied by the Brazilian National Team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, they underwent an MRI on the right knee that confirmed the injuries and the impossibility of recovery in time to participate in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
“The coordinator of the Brazilian National Team, Juninho Paulista, is in contact with the sports directors of Arsenal and Sevilla to define whether Alex Telles and Gabriel Jesus remain with the squad in Doha to continue the treatment or return to their clubs.”
Initial reports surrounding Jesus’ comeback timetable pointed towards a likely return to the pitch in three to four weeks, a major boost for an Arsenal side with sights set firmly on the English top-flight title.
In turn, news spreading that, in fact, the hitman’s problem may be considerably more serious that first thought will no doubt set alarm bells ringing across the red half of north London.
As much, though, is precisely what has been reported late tonight.
As per a number of outlets in his native Brazil, Jesus could be in line for as long as three months out of action.
This comes as an imminent decision looms over whether or not his knee will need to be operated on, pending further medical tests.
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