Arsenal have confirmed that Gabriel Jesus will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in Sunday’s FA Cup defeat against Manchester United. Mikel Arteta has been dealt another cruel attacking blow, which should force Arsenal into action in the January transfer window.

The Gunners were already without Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri for an extended period. Now, misfiring striker Kai Havertz is Arteta’s only such option.

Jesus started against United at the Emirates Stadium but was stretchered off after 41 minutes in discomfort after tangling together with Bruno Fernandes.

The Brazilian had clipped Fernandes on the edge of the Arsenal box, but referee Andy Madley dismissed cries for a free-kick.

However, the play stopped shortly after when it became apparent that Jesus was in serious pain on the turf near the scene of the incident.

Arsenal went on to miss an abundance of opportunities, including a Martin Odegaard penalty, before crashing out on penalties, with Altay Bayindir saving Havertz’s decisive spot-kick.

And Arteta’s fortunes have now worsened after the club confirmed that Jesus has been dealt a long-term injury.

A statement read: “Further to being substituted during our match with Manchester United on Sunday, Gabriel Jesus has received extensive assessments, scans and specialist reviews which have confirmed that he has sustained an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

“Gabby will undergo surgery in the coming days and will soon begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme.

“We will continue to keep everyone updated with Gabby’s recovery, with everyone at the club fully focused on supporting Gabby to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”

According to Sky Sports, Arsenal are pushing to sign a new striker before the January deadline to refuel the club’s fading season.

It’s claimed the Gunners had explored both long-term targets and emergency fixes before Jesus became their latest injury casualty.

Arteta had suggested that Jesus was set for a prolonged spell on the sidelines after suffering a second cup defeat in as many weeks.

“We know more now. It is not looking good at all,” Arteta explained ahead of Wednesday’s north London derby.

“We need to review with one more specialist and will have better information this afternoon.

“I don’t want to confirm anything until we have the final report this afternoon. We were very worried after the game, and we are very worried today.”