Gabriel Jesus has revealed that Mikel Arteta personally applauded him in the dressing room following his standout performance in Arsenal’s commanding victory over Wigan Athletic, a moment that underlined both the Brazilian’s growing confidence and the manager’s faith in him.
The Gunners delivered a professional display against Wigan, and at the heart of their attacking fluidity was Jesus, whose energy, movement, and clinical edge proved too much for the League One side to handle. While the scoreline reflected Arsenal’s superiority, it was Jesus’ all-round contribution that caught the eye — and earned him special recognition from Arteta.
Speaking after the game, the former Manchester City forward admitted that the manager’s praise meant a lot to him, particularly during a season in which he has battled injuries and fierce competition for places.
“It was a good night for me and for the team,” Jesus said. “The most important thing is always the victory, but when the manager comes to you and applauds your performance, it gives you extra motivation. Mikel told me he was very happy with how I played — not just the goals, but the work rate and how I helped the team.”
Jesus was relentless from the first whistle. He pressed high, linked play intelligently, and constantly dragged defenders out of position. His movement between the lines created space for teammates, while his composure in front of goal demonstrated why Arteta continues to trust him in big moments.
Throughout his tenure at Arsenal, Arteta has consistently praised Jesus’ influence beyond goals and assists. The Spanish coach values his tactical intelligence, leadership, and willingness to sacrifice for the team — qualities that were on full display against Wigan.
According to Jesus, Arteta’s words were simple but powerful.
“He said, ‘This is the Gabriel we need — aggressive, confident, smiling, enjoying football.’ That makes me proud because I work very hard every day,” he added. “I want to help Arsenal win trophies.”
Arteta himself highlighted Jesus’ impact in his post-match remarks, emphasizing the striker’s intensity and mentality. “Gabby was excellent,” the manager said. “He showed hunger, quality, and commitment. That’s what we demand. When he plays with that freedom and determination, he lifts the whole team.”
The performance comes at a crucial time for Arsenal, as they juggle domestic and European ambitions. With competition in attack from the likes of Eddie Nketiah and Leandro Trossard, Jesus knows he must continue delivering at a high level to secure his starting place.
However, nights like this reaffirm why he remains central to Arteta’s long-term vision. Since arriving from Manchester City in 2022, Jesus has brought a winning mentality to the Emirates — one shaped by years under Pep Guardiola. His ability to combine flair with discipline fits perfectly into Arteta’s tactical blueprint.
Against Wigan, he showcased that blend. Whether dropping deep to orchestrate play or darting into the box to finish chances, Jesus looked sharp and decisive. The applause from Arteta was more than just a compliment — it was recognition of a player rediscovering peak form at a critical stage of the campaign.
Fans inside the stadium also responded warmly, chanting his name as he left the pitch to a standing ovation. For a player who thrives on emotion and connection, that support matters.
“Sometimes football is about confidence,” Jesus reflected. “When you feel the love from the supporters and the trust from the coach, you want to give everything back.”
As Arsenal continue their pursuit of silverware, Arteta will hope this performance marks the beginning of a consistent run for Jesus. If he can maintain this sharpness and hunger, he could prove decisive in the months ahead.
For now, though, the image of Arteta applauding his striker after a dominant display tells its own story — a manager satisfied with his forward’s response, and a player determined to repay that faith on the pitch.
If Gabriel Jesus can build on this performance against Wigan Athletic, Arsenal’s rivals will be watching closely.