Arsenal fans finally had a moment they had been waiting nearly a year for, as Gabriel Jesus made his long-anticipated return to action after 322 days on the sidelines. The Brazilian striker, who has battled through one of the toughest injury spells of his career, stepped onto the pitch in last night’s Champions League win against club Brugge, a moment that instantly lifted the entire Arsenal fanbase.
Softfootball earlier reported that Gabriel Jesus was officially added back into Arsenal’s Champions League squad, replacing youngster Max Dowman, who suffered a serious injury. That squad change opened the door for Jesus to be available once again, and the Brazilian wasted no time in making his presence felt.
Jesus came on for Viktor Gyökeres in the 62nd minute, marking his first appearance since his long-term injury, which kept him away from competitive football for almost an entire year. The away fans erupted as he stepped back onto the pitch, a sight Arsenal fans had dearly missed.
Speaking after the game, Gabriel Jesus couldn’t hide his joy and relief at finally returning. According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Romano posted:
Gabriel Jesus, back after 322 days: I am MORE than ready.Everyone was expecting me to score, and obviously, I wanted to score. I’m so happy and so pleased. ❤️🤍
His energy, movement, and spirit were immediately noticeable, reminding everyone why he remains such an important figure in Mikel Arteta’s project. Even without a goal on his return, his presence alone offered Arsenal renewed attacking depth and a morale boost as the Champions League campaign intensifies.
With Jesus now officially back, Arsenal’s frontline looks stronger than ever and if his words are anything to go by, the striker is determined to make up for lost time.
