A statistic has proved that Arsenal have unlocked their very own Lionel Messi, who comes in the shape of Gabriel Jesus. The 25-year-old striker joined the Gunners from Manchester City in the summer in a move worth around £45million and, having greatly impressed, it's fair to say that the striker has exceeded expectations back under Mikel Arteta's stewardship.
Jesus has featured nine times for the Spaniard's side in the Premier League this season, directly contributing towards eight goals. The Brazil international's breathtaking displays have guided the north Londoners to the makings of a title charge, so it's no surprise to see that he's quickly become considered one of Europe's most dangerous forwards.
And, in doing so, Jesus has outperformed one of the world's all-time greats - Messi. According to Squawka, the Brazilian has completed more take-ons inside the opposition box than anybody else in Europe's top five leagues, Champions League and Europa League combined this season.
READ MORE: Mikel Arteta can unlock his own Ian Wright after Arsenal star impresses in Europa League clash
Jesus has recored eight, Messi has notched seven and Vincius Junior has six. The only other Premier League player who comes close to the Arsenal striker is Jack Grealish, with four.
While take-ons completed inside the opposition box is not the be-all and end-all, Jesus' feat is a testament to tremendous impact the talisman has had at the Emirates Stadium since joining in the summer. He's flourished under Arteta's management and is quickly finally growing into his exceptionally high ceiling which once attracted a vast majority of Europe's biggest clubs a few years ago.
A big part of Jesus' success is his mentality, which the Gunners boss 'loves'. In an interview with as quoted by Arsenal.com, Arteta showered the Brazilian with praise following Arsenal's 3-0 win over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.
"I love his mentality," he said of Jesus. "It doesn’t matter how long he plays, when he plays, in which position, he always gives absolutely everything.
"You see his pressing when he goes on the pitch, it makes the team different. His energy as well. Obviously today he (made) an outstanding action, to create the third goal. He has won everything in the last five years, imagine what the rest have to do, so follow him, because he’s always in the right spot"
READ NEXT:
Why Mikel Arteta got angry with Fabio Vieira as Arsenal standards fail to satisfy
Martin Keown and Joe Cole agree on 'graceful' Arsenal star challenging Martin Odegaard
Arsenal player ratings vs Bodo/Glimt as Nketiah and Vieira impress but Marquinhos underwhelms
Bukayo Saka, William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli new Arsenal contract stance explained
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from the Emirates Stadium
