Arteta reveals Jesus injury blow weeks ahead of season opener

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has confirmed Gabriel Jesus is set to miss the start of the Premier League campaign after the Brazilian forward underwent a minor operation.

The Gunners striker had an impressive beginning to life in North London last term, registering 11 goals and six assists in the league.

However, he was forced to sit out for 15 games after suffering a knee injury while on World Cup duty, eventually returning during the latter stages of the season.

After Arsenal's Emirates Cup win over AS Monaco on Wednesday, Arteta said: "Unfortunately, he [Jesus] had a little procedure this morning.

"He has some discomfort in his knee that has been causing some issues and he had to go and resolve it. It's not something major but he is going to be out for a few weeks.

"It's a big blow because we had him back to his best, especially the way he played against Barcelona. 

"He was in good condition and we lost him but he's feeling some discomfort in the last few weeks and we had to make a decision.

"It's something related to the previous injury that he had and the surgery. He had some irritation in the knee and we had to get it resolved."

Arteta will now have to decide on a new focal point for his Arsenal side, with Eddie Nketiah and Leandro Trossard both previously filling in for the Brazil international.

Folarin Balogun is another option for the Spanish tactician who returned to the club off the back of a successful loan stint at Reims, where he bagged 21 goals in Ligue 1.

The United States striker has been linked with a move away from the Emirates, although when asked if Jesus' injury changes anything for the 22-year-old, the Arsenal boss revealed little on his future.

Arteta said: "The plan with Flo doesn't change at all, but unfortunately, with Gabby, we are not going to have him. 

"We have other options to play with different qualities of players, so we will adapt."

Arsenal face Manchester City next in the Community Shield at Wembley on Sunday ahead of their Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest on August 12.