Arsenal legend Ray Parlour has publicly urged Mikel Arteta to oversee a significant squad overhaul this summer, calling on the manager to cut out the “deadwood” that he believes has under-performed during a turbulent phase of the campaign.
Parlour’s remarks come in the wake of *ARSENAL*’s shock FA Cup quarter-final defeat to Championship side Southampton — a result that magnified inconsistencies and sparked renewed scrutiny of fringe players’ contributions.
Speaking in the aftermath of the defeat, Parlour stressed that while Arteta should retain his job even if the Gunners leave the season trophy-less, the squad needs a refresh ahead of next season.
He singled out certain players — widely viewed as surplus to requirements — stating that the time has come for fresh legs and a leaner, more competitive roster. Although Parlour did not name all individuals he has in mind, one of the most notable players reportedly tipped for departure is striker Gabriel Jesus, who has struggled for consistency and impact this season.
Jesus arrived at Arsenal in 2022 from Manchester City and has totalled 31 goals in 117 appearances for the North London club. However, ongoing injury issues and a lack of regular starts have limited his influence, sparking speculation that a summer exit could be on the cards — particularly if contract renewal talks fail to progress.
Reports indicate Jesus is open to a move within the Premier League or overseas, with interest reportedly coming from clubs such as Juventus and AC Milan, while a return to boyhood club Palmeiras remains a long-term possibility
The Arsenal legend told talkSPORT: ‘There’s going to be a lot of work done in the summer because there’s a lot of deadwood there. He needs to get rid of quite a few players if I’m being honest.’
Why Now Might Be the Right Time to Let Jesus Depart Arsenal
This summer could be the ideal window for ARSENAL to part ways with Jesus. First, his injury record over the past two seasons has repeatedly disrupted Arteta’s attacking plans, limiting his ability to contribute consistently.
In a highly competitive Premier League and Champions League push, Arsenal cannot afford prolonged spells without key contributors delivering at peak performance. Jesus has shown flashes of quality but has been unable to stay fit or in form long enough to justify a long-term central role.
Arsenal’s squad has evolved under Arteta, with options such as Viktor Gyökeres and others offering fresh attacking impetus. Moving Jesus on could free up wages and squad space to pursue players who better align with Arteta’s tactical system, particularly wingers or forward options capable of consistent goal contributions
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