In a press conference this week, Arsenal star Gabriel Jesus talked a bit about his physical shape.
Despite constantly featuring for the Gunners, the Brazilian claimed it’s been a long time since he last played without pain.
Gabriel Jesus then spoke to Brazil’s TNT Sports, and was asked about his fitness situation once again.
Since Brazil will be playing the Copa America this year, there’s some doubt whether he should go to the tournament or finally try to sort out his physical issues during the summer.
Gabriel seems to be against making any sacrifices this time, and despite his wish to represent his country, he’s set to prioritise his health.
“In my best moment, one of my best moments in my career, I went to a World Cup and ended up getting injured and today I still have these little problems with my knee. Today I have a different mindset, today I think I have to look after myself a lot too, take care of myself, because if I’m 100% I’ll help and if I’m not, I won’t help.
“I honestly don’t know if my knee will be good enough to be available, but it’s still three months away, so we’ll see what happens. Even here at Arsenal there are things that you have to hold on to, go, train, play, train today, don’t train, play, in short, it’s difficult, but I intend to, my desire is always to be available for both Arsenal and the national team.
“It doesn’t matter if, at the end of the season, I have to open up my knee and correct what’s getting in the way and end up missing out on a chance to play in the Copa America.”
That clearly presents the distinct possibility of an operation preventing him from taking part in the competition.
Featuring for Arsenal this season, Jesus has eight goals and five assists in 28 appearances. He missed a few games because of injuries, but his consistency is indeed impressive for someone who carries that pain.
Maybe the Premier League trophy is what will decide whether the striker will have a rest during the summer or try to win a title with the national team.
He also insisted he wants to be fit for pre-season, which would be difficult if he carried the knee problem into the Copa America.
