Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel has now spoken out in defence of one Arsenal star who was targeted by Manchester City fans.
Manchester City supporters made their feelings about one Arsenal player clear at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday evening.
Gabriel Jesus was named in the Arsenal starting XI against his former club. The Brazilian was stationed on the left wing, in the place of the injured Gabriel Martinelli.
With Kai Havertz having impressed as a striker in recent weeks, Jesus was not restored to his usual position up front. However, he still endeavoured in make an impact from the flank. As per WhoScored statistics, the 26-year-old took three shots in the match, more than any of his teammates. However, none of them were on target.
Gabriel Jesus struggles continue in Man City v Arsenal
In many ways this summed up Jesus’ season so far, as he often was able to beat his man or pick up the ball in a favourable position, but his finishing let him down. He has only found the back of the net four times in the Premier League this season, having made twenty appearances in the competition.
Jesus has vowed to make changes to his game in an effort to become more prolific. However, this performance was further evidence for why Arsenal are in the market for a new striker.
One thing Jesus did have to put up with in this match, though, was the vitriol of the home crowd. Boos were heard at times when he was on the ball.
Of course, it is typical for a returning player to be targeted by fans of his former club. The 64-cap Brazil international spent six seasons on the books at Manchester City, making 236 appearances and winning four Premier League titles, amongst numerous other honours, before moving on to the north London club in the summer of 2022.
Peter Schmeichel sticks up for Gabriel Jesus against Man City fans
However, Peter Schmeichel took issue with the treatment Gabriel Jesus received from the stands at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday evening. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live (31/03/24, 18:02), the iconic former goalkeeper, who spent a brief spell with Manchester City in his own playing days, said, “I don’t get why the Man City crowd are booing Gabriel Jesus, he didn’t ask to leave. It’s just what happens. They should be applauding him. He did a lot here.”
Much of the Manchester City fans’ animosity can perhaps be attributed to the rivalry which is currently brewing between these two clubs. Mikel Arteta has made Arsenal genuine title contenders again. The Gunners suddenly now pose a real threat to Manchester City’s crown. Jesus has played a big role in helping Arsenal to make this progress.