Mikel Arteta (43), Arsenal's manager, expressed deep regret over Gabriel Jesus's (28, Arsenal) injury.
Arteta said in an interview with 'Men In Blazers' released on the 7th (Korean time), "I wanted to pause the game that day. I wanted to tell Jesus, 'You're doing really well, so let's take a break and bring in another player.' However, that is not possible in football."
Jesus tore his Chonbang ligament in the FA Cup match against Manchester United (Man U) in January. He has been ruled out for the season due to this injury and is currently undergoing rehabilitation with the goal of returning this year. Jesus has started 12 matches this season and scored 7 goals.
Arsenal has struggled with the absence of a true striker, as both Jesus and Kai Havertz (26) have suffered hamstring injuries. As a result, the team was eliminated early from the FA Cup and fell behind in the league title race.
However, Arteta noted, "I am much prouder now than in August," adding, "We have gone through a lot of difficulties, and we overcame what would have caused other teams to collapse."
He also mentioned, "In situations where injuries of this level occur, it is typically difficult to win the league, let alone qualify for the Champions League," while adding, "Nevertheless, what we have achieved is historic and something to be proud of."
However, Arteta commented, "In this level of injury situation, it is normal to find it difficult to qualify for the Champions League," stating, "Nevertheless, reaching the semifinals is historic for us."
Arsenal is set to play against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg at Parc des Princes in Paris, France, on the 8th. After losing the first leg 0-1, the team must secure a victory to advance to the finals.
Meanwhile, Arteta also mentioned the positive influence of his dog, 'Win,' on the team. He described, "Win brings love and peace. He is the most loyal being."
[OSEN]