Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus made a triumphant return to the UEFA Champions League, scoring a goal that propelled his team to a 2-0 victory over Inter Milan at the San Siro on Tuesday. That landmark victory was an important step toward qualifying for the Women’s World Cup tournament’s knockout stages. It was an impressive testimony to Jesus’s comeback after a long-term injury absence.
The 28-year-old attacking midfielder was looking at a full year of rehab after tearing his ACL. He incurred the injury in January of this year. Though he was back on the pitch in December, he largely only featured as a substitute from that point onward. Prior to this match, he’d only started in domestic cup competitions. This only added to how impressive his performance against Inter was.
So when play reached the 10th minute of the match, Jesus took his chance. He took advantage of a deflected shot from teammate Jurrien Timber to volley home and give Arsenal the lead. Adding to his confidence, he finally scored his first Champions League goal in more than two years. This newly realized achievement further added to the significant nature of the evening.
Later on in the game, Jesus scored the dagger when he headed in from a corner. This goal is a testament to his remarkable football IQ and sense of positioning. He had a man of the match caliber performance and was replaced in the 75th minute. As he departed the pitch, Arsenal supporters and neutral fans everywhere gave him a standing ovation.
Reflecting on his return to the Champions League stage, Jesus shared what makes him so emotionally attached to football.
“It’s a dream night. I always dreamed of being a footballer,” – Gabriel Jesus
He went on to discuss his long and painful recovery, focusing on lessons learned and personal growth along the way.
“There is always a reason that things happen, even whether it’s good things or difficult things. I learned that during my 11 months out of the field.” – Gabriel Jesus
The game at San Siro was of particular poignancy for Jesus himself, who remembered growing up and idolizing Serie A.
“I watched when I was a kid, I watched a lot of Serie A, so to be here in this stadium and score here is tears in my eyes, because I always dreamed of being here.” – Gabriel Jesus
Arsenal’s win clinched their place in the knockout round of the Champions League. That moment, though, was more notable for the willpower on display by Gabriel Jesus. His journey from injury to scoring on one of football’s biggest stages should inspire everyone. It’s an incredible story of his willpower and love for the game.
