Arsenal have given a major indication over Gabriel Jesus’ recovery as the club submitted their Champions League squad.
The Brazilian striker has been sidelined since January after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Manchester United.
Jesus has been sharing regular social media updates of his rehabilitation, including a recent video of individual grass training, reports Football London.
He admitted the process had been “seven months of pain, uncertainty, and anxiety” but declared he now feels like a child again.
While progress has been positive, Arsenal’s European squad selection suggests the forward is still some distance away from returning.
Champions League squad confirmed
UEFA required clubs to submit group-stage squads by September 2, with Arsenal registering 23 players for the first phase.
Jesus was left out of the list, strongly hinting he is not expected to feature in the early group matches.
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Arsenal’s final group clash comes on January 28 against Kairat, when Jesus may still be working toward fitness.
If the Gunners reach the knockout rounds, Mikel Arteta can add Jesus into the updated UEFA squad submission.
Havertz included despite surgery
Unlike Jesus, forward Kai Havertz has been included, despite undergoing a minor procedure that will keep him out temporarily.
Arsenal remain optimistic Havertz will return quickly, meaning his registration for the Champions League was never in doubt.
For Jesus, however, the omission reflects caution, with Arsenal prioritising his long-term recovery over a premature return.
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