Gabriel Jesus' five-goal streak could change everything for Arsenal

In December 2024, Arsenal's Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus displayed a remarkable revival in form during matches against Crystal Palace, scoring five goals in just two games. His hat-trick in the Carabao Cup and a brace in the Premier League not only contributed to a 5-1 victory but also marked his first Premier League goal in over 326 days. This resurgence came after a prolonged period of underperformance that had left fans questioning his future at Arsenal. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, hailed Jesus' improvement and work ethic, noting the striker's journey back to form. The matches were quite chaotic, showcasing Arsenal's attacking capabilities with an xG of 2.88 compared to Palace’s 1.72. Despite missing key player Bukayo Saka due to a hamstring injury, which left the team uncertain about their attacking strategy, Arsenal managed to adapt successfully. Arteta attempted to balance offensive play with defensive stability, emphasizing the need for adjustments both during and after the game. His goal is to create a team that is capable of both attacking threats and solid defense, a philosophy he continues to refine as their season progresses. Arteta's focus on Gabriel Jesus as a central figure in their attacking strategy may alleviate the call from fans for reinforcements in the upcoming winter transfer window. With Raheem Sterling also sidelined by an injury, the pressure on Jesus has increased, but his recent exploits on the pitch have reignited confidence within the squad and its supporters. As he continues to develop his skills and confidence, Arteta asserts the importance of keeping the momentum going for Jesus and the team moving forward into the season. The current circumstances highlight the tension between form and pressure, as the team's supporters were eager for new signings after lackluster performances in previous weeks. However, with Jesus’ strong showing, the narrative may shift back towards building on current strengths rather than seeking external solutions. The club will need to assess Saka's condition while hoping that Jesus can maintain this positive trajectory in the matches to come. As Arsenal prepares for their upcoming fixture against Ipswich on December 27, the condition of Saka and Jesus' role in the squad will be pivotal for their success.