Gabriel Jesus has had to contend with proving the critics wrong for his whole career.
People have routinely questioned if the Brazilian has what it takes to lead the line and part of the reasoning behind his move to Arsenal was a desire to be the main man.
Jesus has impressed during his time in north London, but his tally of 16 goals in 46 games has led to the Gunners being linked with a move for a new striker.
Brentford star Ivan Toney is one player on the club’s radar, although any move for him or another striker is most likely to take place next summer and not in January as Mikel Arteta’s priority for now is a new midfielder.
Arsenal undoubtedly need reinforcements in attack, but it doesn’t have to be a central striker.
Equally as beneficial for the Gunners would be the addition of a wide player who could take the burden off Bukayo Saka, and Wolves' Pedro Neto remains a player the club admires.
When Jesus is in the mood he was on Wednesday night against Lens, then it is easy to argue why Arsenal don’t need a new No9.
The Brazilian brings the best out of those around him with his movement off the ball and it is no coincidence that Arsenal’s attack has struggled without him this season.
Arteta describes Jesus as someone who brings “chaos” and the way he drags defenders around can be devastating.
Gabriel Martinelli is someone who particularly benefits from Jesus as otherwise he can look isolated out on his wing.
It is early days for Kai Havertz, but there appears to be the makings of a good understanding between him and Jesus too.
The German now has two goals in as many games and the way he penetrated the space left by Jesus against Lens was promising.
"The lack of goals doesn't matter when Jesus is in top form because he brings the best out of those around him"
“Gabriel Jesus is a very important player for us,” Arsenal legend Thierry Henry told CBS Sports. “Will he ever score 20-25? I hope so. But what he does in general, it’s just great for us.”
That is the thing with Jesus, if you are looking for an out-and-out goalscorer then he isn’t your man. But as he passionately pointed out on Wednesday night, he is much more than that.
Truth be told, the lack of goals doesn't matter when Jesus is in top form because he brings the best out of those around him. Arsenal’s attack would be far worse off without him.
