Gabriel Jesus admitted he had “tears in my eyes” after producing a stunning two-goal performance to inspire Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Inter Milan, a result that sealed the Gunners’ place in the Champions League last 16 and preserved their perfect European record this season.
The emotional night in Milan marked a major milestone in Jesus’ comeback journey, as the Brazil international continues to rebuild after an 11-month absence with an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Making just his third start since returning in December, the 28-year-old delivered a performance reminiscent of his very best.
Gabriel Jesus Rolls Back the Years at the San Siro
Facing a strong Inter Milan side in one of Europe’s most iconic stadiums, Jesus rose to the occasion. His two goals took his tally to three for the season and ended a personal drought of 10 Champions League matches without scoring, stretching back to November 2023.
“It’s a dream night,” Jesus told Amazon Prime.
“I always dreamed of being a footballer. I watched Serie A a lot when I was a kid, so to be here, in this stadium, and score here — it’s tears in my eyes.”
Arsenal controlled large periods of the match and, despite Inter’s attacking threat, showed maturity and authority to secure a famous away win and a club-record seventh consecutive Champions League victory.
Overcoming Injury and Setbacks
Jesus reflected candidly on the difficult period he has endured since joining Arsenal four years ago, admitting injuries have limited his impact.
“I’ve been here four seasons but it feels like one and a half or two,” he said.
“There is always a reason things happen, whether good or difficult. I learned that during my 11 months out of the field.”
The forward had previously shown glimpses of his quality after returning to fitness, notably scoring a superb goal in Arsenal’s 4-1 win over Aston Villa last month. Against Inter, however, he looked fully restored — sharp, confident, and decisive.
Arsenal’s Striker Depth Comes to the Fore
Jesus’ performance arrives at a key moment for Arsenal’s attack. Fans had been calling for him to start following struggles in front of goal for summer signing Viktor Gyökeres, who had managed just one open-play goal in his previous 12 appearances.
In Milan, Gyökeres responded positively, coming off the bench to curl home Arsenal’s third goal late on — his second open-play strike in 13 games and his second goal in three matches overall after scoring in the Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg win over Chelsea.
“We all want to start,” said Jesus.
“But I’m not a kid anymore. I understand football. I’m very happy I scored and that Vik scored. And I’m confident Kai [Havertz] will score when he gets his chance.”
With Kai Havertz also returning from a knee injury, Arsenal suddenly have multiple attacking options as the season intensifies.
Arteta Praises Jesus’ Impact and Squad Depth
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was quick to highlight Jesus’ importance to the team and the boost his performance provides.
“We’ve been missing Gabi a lot,” Arteta said.
“It’s going to raise his confidence and the team’s confidence. Now we have different profiles in that position, like we do in other areas.”
The match marked the first time this season that two Arsenal centre-forwards scored in the same game, underlining the growing depth and competition within the squad.
Champions League Pedigree and Elite Company
Jesus’ brace took his Champions League goal tally to 26 in just 53 appearances, placing him in elite Brazilian company. Only Neymar and Jardel have reached 25 goals in fewer games in the competition.
Former Champions League winner Clarence Seedorf praised Jesus’ attitude:
“It’s not about competition between players. Whoever plays needs to perform. If the team wins, the next game becomes easier for everyone.”
Selection Headache Ahead of Manchester United Clash
Arsenal now turn their attention back to the Premier League, with a heavyweight clash against Manchester United looming on Sunday.
Former England captain Wayne Rooney believes Jesus has given Arteta a selection dilemma:
“If I was Gabriel Jesus, I’d be saying, ‘I want to start on Sunday.’ He scored two goals and played really well — he’s put that pressure on the manager.”
With Arsenal leading the Premier League and flying in Europe, Jesus’ resurgence could prove pivotal as the season reaches its decisive phase.
Key Takeaways
- Gabriel Jesus scored twice as Arsenal beat Inter Milan 3-1
- The win sealed Arsenal’s place in the Champions League last 16
- Jesus was making only his third start since returning from an ACL injury
- Arsenal maintained a 100% record in this season’s Champions League
- Increased competition among forwards boosts Arsenal’s attacking options
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