The Gunners’ recent 2-2 draw against Wolves has blown the Premier League title race wide open. Mikel Arteta is under real pressure after his team missed the chance to move seven points clear at the top. As Arsenal chases the crown, doubts are growing over forward Gabriel Jesus’ future.
No Clear Signs of A New Deal for Gabriel Jesus
Gabriel Jesus is under contract with Arsenal until 2027. The The forward has made it clear that he wants to continue his football career at the North London club. He stated in a press conference before the Champions League Inter Milan match last month**:** “My wish is to stay at Arsenal. And then I have a contract as well. Obviously if you ask me, like you did already, I want to extend my contract.”.
However, As per reports, there has been no public movement from the Premier League side. The club have not started contract talks, and there are no strong signs that a new deal is close. That silence has raised questions about his future. This careful approach fits the firm squad management style of Andrea Berta. Arsenal have shown a willingness to make difficult decisions. The lack of talks could point to a possible exit.
The situation would clearly have an impact on the attack. When fit, Jesus is very important to Mikel Arteta and his system. But his injury record worries decision-makers. The club appear to value performance and availability above sentiment. Despite these concerns, Jesus has been efficient this season. Jesus averages a goal or assist every 96.4 minutes this season. That compares well with Viktor Gyokeres, who averages a goal or assist every 150.3 minutes.
Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Alan Smith has warned that replacing Jesus would not be cheap. He believes it would take major investment to sign a forward with similar qualities. Fans remain split. Some value his pressing, movement and work rate. Others worry about whether he can stay fit as the season continues.
How did Mikel Arteta experimented with Saka in the FA Cup tie?
During a recent FA Cup fixture against Wigan Athletic, a late injury to Riccardo Calafiori forced Arsenal to rethink their plans. Mikel Arteta moved Bukayo Saka into central midfield. It was a big shift from his usual role on the right wing. However, Saka looked natural as a number ten and showed he can control games from the middle. His stats were impressive as they won 4-0 against Wigan. He had 36 touches and completed 25 of his 26 passes, giving him 96 per cent accuracy. He also won six of his seven duels and made five ball recoveries.
The manager said he was pleased with the experiment after the game. He stated: “That’s something that’s a possibility and I wanted to try it, and we might use it in the future,”. The move gives Arsenal another attacking option as they chase major honours. Playing Saka through the middle puts him closer to goal and makes him harder to mark.
Reactions from pundits have been positive. Martin Keown said the role gave Saka more freedom and helped his confidence. Fans have also reacted with excitement. Many supporters described the display as a masterclass and are eager to see the setup used against tougher opposition in the future.
🗣️Mikel Arteta suggests he may move Bukayo Saka more regularly in to the central midfield for #Arsenal after the Wigan win today: “Yeah, playing Bukayo in central midfield is something that's a possibility, and I wanted to try it and we might use it in the future. So we still… pic.twitter.com/AFRKWGXQpg
— Arsenal News Channel (@Arsenalnewschan) February 15, 2026
What’s next for the manager?
Mikel Arteta is facing growing pressure with each passing day. There is rising talk that his future could depend on whether Arsenal win silverware this season. At the same time, the contract situation of Gabriel Jesus is still unclear. However, the recent midfield experiment with Bukayo Saka has given the manager a positive option. Now, the coach must guide his squad wisely as they prepare for a tough stretch of games in the Premier League in the coming week.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
Recommended for you