Mikel Arteta has warned Gabriel Jesus that he must “earn” more minutes for Arsenal amid speculation on his long-term future at the Emirates Stadium.

Jesus was an integral part of Arsenal’s resurgence in the 2022/23 season but saw his minutes limited following Kai Havertz’s arrival, and the Brazilian has been forced to accept just 79 minutes across five Premier League appearances so far this season.

Questions about his future have since sparked links to former employers Palmeiras, who were recently credited with a failed approach for the forward.

Now physically healthy after a minor issue over the summer, Arteta challenged Jesus to remind him why he deserves a greater role.

“He came on in a great shape, probably in the best condition he’s been with us,” said Arteta. “He was flying in pre-season and unfortunately he got that injury straight away that affected him for a few weeks.

“He put again a lot of work into it to come back and now he needs to get the rhythm. He’s playing a few games, he’s started two games in a row vs Atalanta and Bolton, he’s come on against Southampton.

“So yeah, he’s there. Now he needs to earn the right to play more. He’s got our full support, he’s a player that can play in various positions and he’s a really important player for us.”

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