Gabriel Jesus injury undermines brilliant start at Manchester City
By Roy Emanuel
Gabriel Jesus’ injury on Monday evening has slowed his incredible start at the Etihad.
After such fantastic play since arriving at Manchester City last month, talented Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus will reportedly miss two to three months after suffering an injury to his right foot Monday against AFC Bournemouth.
Jesus was subbed off in the 15th minute of City’s 2-0 victory at the Vitality Stadium.
It is certainly an unfortunate setback for the 19-year old, as “Gabigol” had made quite an impression on the Premier League in a short amount of time. Jesus has scored three league goals in only four appearances under manager Pep Guardiola.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Jesus’ early returns for City has been living up to the tremendous hype surrounding his signing. His rise with Brazilian side Palmeiras was nothing short of meteoric and his addition was announced months before he joined his current squad.
Displaying incredible skill on the ball and an ability to play in multiple positions on the pitch, Jesus quickly established himself as one the brightest young stars in South America.
Jesus has made an impact on the international stage as well. Part of several Brazilian national youth sides and the 2016 Olympic gold medal team last summer, the gifted striker has scored four goals with the senior side in just six appearances.
Unstoppable pace
One of Jesus’ greatest strengths is his incredible pace on the pitch, and this attribute directly assisted in his strong start to life in the Premier League. His recent performance against Swansea City was a truly impressive display.
Along with a great scoring instinct and quick movement, his first goal of the match is exactly what any club will want from their centre-forward. Excellent vision and sharp reflexes show why Jesus has been able to adapt to the Premier League quickly.
His injury is certainly frustrating, but Jesus should still have a role to play in the current campaign. Eight points back of league leaders Chelsea, important fixtures still remain for second-place Manchester City during the next few months.
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Depth
Adapting to a new league can be a difficult process for any footballer, especially when moving to the English Premier League. But Jesus has greatly benefitted from the talented line-up around him at City.
To be able to learn from and play alongside Sergio Aguero is fantastic both for Jesus’ current form and potential development. Midfielders such as Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and David Silva can provide the quality service that any striker would want as they search for goals.
Along with Kelechi Iheanacho and Leroy Sane, Gabriel Jesus is part of a young attacking group that is bound to bring excitement at the Etihad Stadium for many years to come.
Pep Guardiola
The managers that are part of a young player’s growth can be crucial, and Jesus is fortunate to have one of the game’s all-time best both in the present and in the future at Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola had a hand in developing some of this generation’s greatest footballers at Barcelona, and his abilities have aided in Jesus producing immediately in the English top flight.
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Fitness issues have cast a cloud over his brilliant start, but Gabriel Jesus will be a major part of Manchester City’s future and their finish to the 2016-17 season.