Since arriving from Manchester City, Jesus has gradually cemented his role as the focal point of Arteta’s attack, not just through goals, but through the qualities that make Arsenal’s system function at its highest level.
Arteta has always valued forwards who can contribute across multiple phases of play, and Gabriel Jesus fits that profile perfectly. Unlike a traditional number nine who operates almost exclusively in the penalty area, Jesus thrives on movement, link-up play, and pressing from the front. His ability to drop deep, drag defenders out of position, and create space for Arsenal’s wide players has been central to the team’s attacking fluidity. For Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, Jesus’ presence often opens up channels that allow them to attack defenders one-on-one, making Arsenal far less predictable in the final third.
Another major reason Arteta has chosen Jesus as his preferred striker is his tactical intelligence. The Brazilian understands when to lead the press, when to hold the ball up, and when to make runs that may not earn him a goal but benefit the team. Arteta has frequently spoken about “collective responsibility” in attack, and Jesus embodies that idea. His defensive work rate sets the tone for Arsenal’s high-pressing style, forcing mistakes from opponents and allowing the midfield to play higher up the pitch.
Beyond tactics, there is also a strong psychological element to Arteta’s trust in Gabriel Jesus. The striker brings a winning mentality shaped by his time at Manchester City, where he won multiple Premier League titles under Pep Guardiola. That experience has been invaluable in a young Arsenal squad still learning how to handle pressure at the highest level. Jesus’ confidence, resilience, and leadership—often expressed through his constant communication on the pitch—have made him a reference point for his teammates.
Critics have occasionally pointed to Jesus’ goal-scoring numbers, arguing that Arsenal might need a more prolific finisher. However, Arteta’s preference suggests he measures success differently. For the Arsenal manager, goals are a shared responsibility, and the striker’s role is to knit the entire attacking structure together. In many of Arsenal’s best performances, Jesus has been involved in the build-up to goals even when he has not been the one finishing them.
Arteta’s faith in Gabriel Jesus also sends a clear message about the identity he wants Arsenal to maintain: dynamic, aggressive, and cohesive. By choosing Jesus as his preferred striker, Arteta reinforces the idea that intelligence, work rate, and tactical discipline are just as important as raw goal tallies. As Arsenal continue to compete at the top level, Gabriel Jesus remains central to Arteta’s vision—a striker who leads not only by scoring, but by making everyone around him better.