Daijiworld Media Network - Milan
Milan, Jan 21: Gabriel Jesus delivered a statement performance as Arsenal continued their flawless UEFA Champions League campaign with a clinical 3-1 victory over Internazionale at the San Siro on Tuesday night.
Making the most of manager Mikel Arteta’s rotation policy, Jesus struck twice to put the Gunners firmly in control, while substitute Viktor Gyökeres added his name to the scoresheet with a stunning finish, underlining Arsenal’s growing depth in attack.
Arsenal took an early lead in the 10th minute when a loose ball inside the box fell kindly for Jesus, who reacted sharply to volley past Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer. The hosts drew level through Petar Sucic’s well-taken strike in the 18th minute, briefly threatening to halt Arsenal’s momentum.
However, the visitors regained control soon after, with Jesus once again in the right place at the right time to nod home following a corner, restoring Arsenal’s lead before the break.
Gyökeres, introduced off the bench, made an immediate impact by curling a sublime right-footed effort into the top corner, sealing the win and marking one of his finest finishes in an Arsenal shirt.
The result extended Arsenal’s perfect record in the competition, making it seven wins from seven matches and guaranteeing a top-two finish in the league phase, which secures home advantage in the knockout stages.
Arteta, who made seven changes to his starting XI, praised both the collective effort and individual performances. “You don’t win at the San Siro without incredible performances,” he said, highlighting the importance of rotation amid a demanding run of fixtures.
Jesus, visibly emotional after the match, said scoring at the iconic stadium was a dream come true, recalling his childhood memories of watching Serie A. The Brazilian’s Champions League numbers continue to impress, with 26 goals and eight assists in 52 appearances.
With Jesus, Gyökeres and Kai Havertz all competing for the striker’s role, Arteta now faces a welcome selection dilemma ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester United, as the Gunners push strongly on multiple fronts this season.