Mikel Arteta faces a tough call this weekend. Arsenal‘s manager must pick between Swedish forward Viktor Gyökeres and Brazilian Gabriel Jesus for Sunday’s crucial Premier League match against Manchester United. This decision comes as Arsenal chases a Premier League title after three second-place finishes. The Emirates Stadium hosts the 4:30 p.m. GMT kick-off on January 25, 2026, a pivotal game for the Gunners’ season.
Both strikers bring different strengths. Gyökeres, signed last summer, offers physical presence and hold-up play. He’s scored 9 goals and made 1 assist in 27 appearances this season. Jesus, returning from a long-term injury, has found form at the right time. He netted a brace mid-week in a Champions League win over Inter Milan at the San Siro, showcasing his movement in tight spaces. He has 3 goals and 1 assist in 12 appearances.
Arteta’s Attacking Conundrum
Arsenal’s striker situation has fans talking. Gyökeres, despite his physicality, has sometimes struggled against defenses that sit deep. His numbers are solid, but not eye-popping for a primary striker. Gabriel Jesus, on the other hand, just got back from a lengthy injury. But he looked sharp against Inter, scoring twice and moving well.
The team needs goals. Arsenal drew its last two Premier League matches 0-0, against Liverpool at home and then away to Nottingham Forest. Those results have made supporters anxious. A win against United is vital for title momentum. Fans want more energy from the team, and Arteta knows it. He asked supporters for “more energy, more positiveness around the games” from their side, as ESPN reported.
Manchester United arrives with momentum under interim manager Michael Carrick. They lead the league in expected goals (xG) and shots over their last two games. United’s defense sets up compactly, presenting a real challenge for Arsenal’s attack. Arteta has to decide how best to break them down. Gyökeres might link up with Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. Jesus could exploit United’s intense pressing with his quick movement.
The Stakes: Title Dreams and Fan Pressure
This match isn’t just three points. Arsenal hasn’t won the Premier League since the “Invincibles” season in 2003-04. They’ve finished second to Arteta for three straight seasons. That’s a long time for a club this big. Arsenal’s still in the mix for the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and EFL Cup. Media are talking about a “quadruple pursuit,” even if the club hasn’t made official statements. They want to win everything.
Squad health is good, mostly. Only youngster Max Dowman is out with an ankle injury. Defenders Piero Hincapié and Riccardo Calafiori have muscle issues, making them doubts. Arteta confirmed a “fully fit squad” overall, a good spot to be in. United also has some injury concerns. Defender Matthijs de Ligt is a doubt with back problems. Bruno Fernandes will play as their No. 10. He’s a central figure for their attack.
“It is not about calming [the fans], but it is about continuing to do what we are doing well and try to evolve every single day to be better.”
— Mikel Arteta, as quoted by ESPN
Arteta expects a tough game. He acknowledged Michael Carrick will bring “new ideas” to United. “Always, the intensity rises up,” Arteta said. He pointed to United’s strong showing in the Manchester derby. Arsenal is at home, and they know the importance of this game.
What Comes Next?
The big decision on Arsenal’s striker remains open until kick-off. Gyökeres fits a physical battle, but can struggle against a packed defense. Jesus excels in tight spaces. Both players scored mid-week, keeping the competition alive. Jesus’ Champions League brace at Inter Milan, and Gyökeres’ goal also in that game, give both players a boost. AP reports Jesus scoring the first two goals for Arsenal against Inter, with Gyökeres adding the third.
The manager’s choice will show his strategy against United’s defense. Will he go for power or finesse? This match is a test. It could set the tone for Arsenal’s title hopes in a long-awaited season.
Soureesh Datta 
Priyanjan Paul 
Ishaan Singh