Aballou: A site made by fans, for fans

Jesus Seizes the Moment: Arsenal’s Comeback Kid to Lead the Charge Against Palace

22 December 2025

Jesus Seizes the Moment: Arsenal’s Comeback Kid to Lead the Charge Against Palace
Gabriel Jesus returns to lead Arsenal’s attack against Crystal Palace in the League Cup.

Jesus Ready to Lead Arsenal’s Attack

Spanish coach Mikel Arteta confirmed Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus is fit to start.

Arsenal host Crystal Palace on Tuesday in the League Cup quarterfinals.

Arteta said Jesus has recovered from the ACL injury that kept him out for a year and is ready to feature.

Jesus recently appeared as a substitute in matches against Club Brugge in the Champions League and Wolverhampton in the Premier League.

He even scored the late winner after coming on against Wolves, despite their equalizer in the 90th minute.

In the press conference, Arteta said Jesus trains every day and looks hungry, so a starting chance will come soon.

He noted Jesus's long road back and that his desire to return was obvious.

Jesus reportedly wrote a touching note about what football means to him and how it shapes his life.

Arteta highlighted Jesus's ability to unite teammates, create bonds, and unsettle opponents with his movement and fighting spirit.

The winner of Arsenal vs Crystal Palace will face Chelsea in the semi-finals.

Arsenal will be hoping Jesus can lead their attack as they chase a trophy this season.

And yes, the boss's optimism is high, which means fantasy football managers might finally stop crying.

Kick-off is scheduled for Tuesday night, fans; punchline 1: if football were math, Arsenal would have the solution to the offside problem; punchline 2: Jesus returns and the defense mutters, bless you.

Author

Avatar

Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gabriel Jesus starting for Arsenal against Crystal Palace?

Yes. Arteta confirmed Jesus is fit and expected to start in the League Cup quarterfinal.

What competition is this match part of?

It is the League Cup, also known as the EFL Cup, quarterfinals.

Why was Jesus out for so long?

He was sidelined for a year due to a serious ACL injury.

What did Jesus do recently for Arsenal?

He has appeared as a substitute in recent matches and even scored a late winner against Wolves.