Gabriel Jesus is “very confident” that Arsenal will win their first Premier League title in over two decades this season, also insisting he “believes 100%” it will be a special season for the Gunners.
Arsenal’s dreams of an unprecedented English quadruple were dashed before the international break after defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, but the Gunners remain in a commanding position on three other fronts.
Currently leading the Premier League table by nine points—albeit chasers Man City have a game in hand—Mikel Arteta’s men have also breezed into the Champions League quarterfinals and should reach the FA Cup semifinal by beating Southampton on Saturday.
The Wembley defeat to Man City could well rock Arsenal’s confidence, especially with the north Londoners having failed to win a major trophy since the FA Cup in 2020, but Jesus is optimistic that his side will get over the line.
Asked by Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand about how he felt regarding Arsenal’s title-winning chances, Jesus replied: “Very confident, very confident.
“We are in a good place and we have an amazing squad. Not just the players who play most of the games but the whole squad. I believe 100% that this season we are doing something.”
Jesus Lavishes Praise on Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka
Arsenal’s impressive ascent to English soccer’s summit has been aided by Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice. The latter has been in particularly devastating form this season, critical to the Gunners putting together such eye-catching runs across all competitions.
Jesus has been in awe of Rice’s recent performances, even revealing the affectionate nickname handed to the all-action midfielder by his teammates.
“He’s the type of player who can do everything. He can defend, he can create, he can shoot ... he’s an amazing player,” enthused the Brazilian.
“He’s different from Rodri because Declan is playing as a No. 8 now. I can compare him a little bit with Fernandinho. Fernandinho defended better than him I think but Declan gets forward, we call him ‘The Horse’ because when he gets going you can’t stop him.
“He’s amazing, really amazing. Look at his character as well, he was born to be a leader. I really appreciate him as a person and as a player.”
Jesus also singled out Saka for praise, insisting he’s comparable to Brazilian superstars Raphinha and Vinicius Junior despite enduring a relatively underwhelming season by his lofty standards.
When asked about comparisons to the Barcelona and Real Madrid wingers, Jesus responded: “He’s at the same table [as Raphinha and Vini Jr], the same table. They are all the same.
“Obviously we’re talking about different styles but they all have that quality and can do things in one moment. You still need to win trophies but he’s there, he’s there.”
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as ‘100%’—Arsenal Star Makes Bold Treble Prediction.
