Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has opened up about his recovery process, mindset, and future goals as he nears the end of his rehabilitation from the serious knee injury that sidelined him earlier this year.
HOW ARE YOU FEELING RIGHT NOW? ARE YOU CLOSE TO RETURNING?
Yeah, I’m feeling great, man. My knee is responding really well. I’m looking forward to being back with the team soon, doing what I love again — it’s been too long.
When you’re out for this long, recovery comes in stages. I’m now at the point where I need to hold myself back a little. I’m working hard on the pitches, but I can’t rush. When you see the finish line, it’s tempting to push, but I have to stay grounded. When the right time comes, I’ll be ready.
WHAT KEPT YOU MOTIVATED THROUGH THE TOUGH TIMES?
First of all — God. I believe if God allows me to face a challenge like this, it’s because He knows I’m strong enough to overcome it.
Then, of course, my family — my wife, my kids, my mum, my friends, my brothers. They all gave me so much strength and positivity every single day. My wife especially helped me a lot during this period.
WHAT DID YOUR RECOVERY LOOK LIKE? DID YOU GO BACK TO BRAZIL?
Yes, I went back to Brazil a few times. The first trip was for a few weeks, and then I spent most of the summer there — but it wasn’t a holiday! I was training every day.
It was also special because we had another baby during that time, back home in São Paulo. Being with my family through that was amazing.
Of course, I’d never wish to be injured, but I honestly believe everything happens for a reason. I was playing my best football when it happened, but I used that time to enjoy my family and prepare myself properly for my return.
WHEN YOU GOT INJURED, YOU WERE IN TOP FORM. HOW DID THAT FEEL?
It was tough because I was flying — six goals in four starts, feeling sharp and confident. I’ve always believed in myself, even through difficult moments here at Arsenal.
But this was the biggest injury of my career. It came when I was living my best moment — eating right, resting well, training perfectly — and then, out of nowhere, it happened. You can’t always control these things.
DID YOU WATCH EVERY GAME WHILE INJURED, OR STEP BACK?
At first, during the first couple of months, I wasn’t too close to the team physically, but I watched all the matches at home. Later, I came back to the training ground and was more involved.
My schedule was different from the others, but I always stayed connected. I even traveled to Paris last season for the semi-final to be with the boys. Anything I could do to help while injured, I did.
HAS THIS INJURY CHANGED YOU AS A PLAYER OR PERSON?
Yes, 100%. It’s changed how I view everything — football and life. I was taking care of myself better than ever, but I learned it’s never enough.
Now I know I need to manage my training smarter. I’m the kind of player who always gives 100%, but sometimes you need control and balance to stay fit across a long season.
WILL YOUR MENTALITY BE DIFFERENT WHEN YOU RETURN?
No — my mentality is the same. I’m a winner. I love to compete, to fight for every game and every training session. That will never change. The only difference is that now I’ll be smarter with how I push my body.
ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT THE NATIONAL TEAM AND THE WORLD CUP?
Of course. Every player dreams of representing their country. I’ve played in two World Cups, and I’d love to be there for a third in 2026.
It won’t be easy — Brazil has incredible players — but I believe in myself. Once I’m back playing and performing, I’ll fight to earn that spot again.