Gabriel Jesus described the night as a “dream” after scoring twice at the San Siro on his first start of the Champions League season, helping Arsenal secure a 3-1 victory over Inter Milan on Tuesday.
The Brazil international struck twice in the first half, either side of Inter’s equaliser, to put Arsenal firmly in control and maintain their perfect record in the competition, with seven wins from seven matches. Visibly emotional at full-time, Jesus reflected on the significance of the occasion and the setting.
“It’s a dream night,” he told Amazon Prime. “I always dreamed of being a footballer. When I was a kid, I watched a lot of Serie A. To be here, in this stadium, and score here brings tears to my eyes because I always dreamed of moments like this.”
The performance marked a major milestone in Jesus’ comeback after a lengthy absence. He only returned to action in December, having been sidelined for nearly a year following an anterior cruciate ligament injury to his left knee.
“There is always a reason why things happen, whether they are good or difficult,” he said. “I learned that during my 11 months out of the field.”
Arsenal, who lead the Premier League, proved too strong for an Inter side currently top of Serie A. The Italian champions had beaten the Gunners 1-0 in last season’s competition and were runners-up in the previous year’s final, underlining the scale of the result.
“It is always difficult to play against Inter Milan,” Jesus added. “We came here last season and lost. Tonight we played better than them, we controlled the game. They are a top team and they attack, but we scored again at the end and got the three points.”
Despite his decisive contribution in Milan, Jesus has yet to start a Premier League match since returning from injury, having made seven substitute appearances domestically. His display against Inter, however, is likely to prompt serious consideration from manager Mikel Arteta ahead of Sunday’s clash with Manchester United.
“Everyone wants to start, but I am very respectful,” Jesus said. “I am not a kid anymore, I am 28, so I understand football. I am very happy that Vik (Gyokeres) came on and scored. I’m happy I scored and that Vik scored, and I’m confident Kai (Havertz) will score when he gets his chance.”
Jesus’ night in Milan not only showcased his quality on Europe’s biggest stage but also reinforced his value to an Arsenal side balancing competition for places with a relentless pursuit of silverware.
