Arsenal star ruled out of Monaco friendly with knee injury

Arsenal have confirmed Gabriel Jesus will miss their final pre-season game of the season, making him a doubt to face Manchester City in the Community Shield this weekend.

The Gunners will finish off their summer preparations with a clash against Monaco for the Emirates Cup on Thursday night, though their Brazilian striker will play no part in the game due to a knee problem.

Arsenal clarified Jesus' absence after posting their starting XI, revealing: "Gabby Jesus misses tonight's game due to a knee issue and will be assessed."

The 26-year-old has featured in Arsenal's pre-season games against Nurnberg, MLS All-Stars, Manchester United and Barcelona, picking up a goal for his efforts.

Jesus was a transformative figure in north London particularly at the start of the 2022/23 season, contributing three goals and assists apiece in his opening five Premier League games. His output dried up slightly but it meant little as Arsenal went into the World Cup break at the top of England's top flight.

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However, the former Manchester City attacker picked up a knee injury in Qatar which would see him miss 15 games before returning in March, scoring another six goals before the campaign ended.

He will now be assessed, as per Arsenal's statement, but in the meantime Eddie Nketiah has been picked to lead the line in the friendly with Monaco. There are also starts for Fabio Vieira and Gabriel Martinelli, while Thomas Partey partners Declan Rice in midfield.

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On this edition of The Chronicles of a Gooner, part of the 90min podcast network, Harry Symeou reacts to Arsenal's interest in David Raya and what it means for Aaron Ramsdale, Folarin Balogun's plea to the club and the Emirates Cup! If you can't see this embed, click here to listen to the podcast!