Mikel Arteta is expected to welcome one Arsenal star back from injury ahead of the North London Derby against Tottenham

Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus could make his return to action in time for the North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur after the international break.

Jesus has had limited playing time this season, featuring for just five minutes in the opening match against Wolverhampton Wanderers before being sidelined with a groin injury. 

The injury occurred just before Arsenal’s away game at Villa Park last month, initially raising concerns that the Brazilian striker might face an extended period on the sidelines.

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However, there is now optimism within the Arsenal camp that Jesus could recover during the international break, making him available for the challenging run of fixtures the Gunners face in September. At the very least, it seems likely that Jesus could be named on the bench for the clash with Spurs.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hinted at Jesus’ impending return during a press conference ahead of the 1-1 draw against Brighton last weekend. Arteta shared positive news on the striker’s recovery, stating, “He’s progressing really well. He had a muscle injury, and he’s already doing quite a lot of the stuff, so we expect him to be with us really soon.”

Journalist Charles Watts also provided an update on Jesus’ condition, speaking on his YouTube channel. Watts revealed that there is hope the striker could be back in action after the international break.

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“On the Gabriel Jesus injury… I have been told there is hope that he could potentially be back after the international break. He is stepping up his recovery plan,” Watts reported. 

While he couldn’t provide a firm return date, Watts added, “The hope is he might be able to join in training at some point during the international break and could have a chance for Spurs.”

The initial fears of a prolonged absence for the 27-year-old appear to have subsided, much to the relief of Arsenal supporters.

In addition to Jesus, Arsenal will face Tottenham without star midfielder Declan Rice, who is suspended following a red card against Brighton. New signing Mikel Merino is also ruled out, and defender Takehiro Tomiyasu remains injured. Meanwhile, Kieran Tierney has returned to training after recovering from an injury sustained during Euro 2024, though he is unlikely to be available for selection in the derby