Gabriel Jesus showcased his flair and form as Arsenal triumphed 4-1 over Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen in a pre-season friendly at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. The Brazilian forward led the charge with a spectacular solo goal, highlighting the Gunners’ promising preparations for the new season.
Arsenal set the tone early, with Oleksandr Zinchenko opening the scoring in the eighth minute. A swift team move saw Kai Havertz cut the ball back to Zinchenko, who slotted a precise left-footed shot into the bottom corner. Just a minute later, Leandro Trossard doubled the lead, finishing coolly from the center of the box after quick interplay between Martin Ødegaard, Jesus, and Havertz.
Jesus, playing with renewed vigor after an injury-plagued previous season, made it 3-0 seven minutes before half-time. Seizing on a misplaced Leverkusen throw-in, he dribbled past a defender and unleashed a low shot from outside the box, sending the Emirates crowd into raptures.
Manager Mikel Arteta praised Jesus’ performance. “From the first day I saw him after last season, I noticed a difference,” Arteta said. “His energy, movement, and desire were evident. Now it’s about maintaining that consistency throughout the season.”
Arteta made several changes at half-time, including introducing England internationals Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice. Saka quickly made an impact, delivering a cross that deflected into Havertz’s path for Arsenal’s fourth goal.
Leverkusen managed a consolation goal through substitute Adam Hlozek in the 76th minute, but it did little to dampen the festive atmosphere. Granit Xhaka, returning to the Emirates with Leverkusen, received a warm ovation from the fans.
Arteta also used the opportunity to give minutes to some of Arsenal’s young talents, including Miles Lewis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri, Ayden Heaven, and Josh Nichols. New signing Riccardo Calafiori was not in the squad, but Arteta hinted at his potential involvement in the next match.
The Gunners will conclude their pre-season with a home game against Lyon on Sunday, before kicking off their Premier League campaign against Wolves on August 17.
Leverkusen, unbeaten in their domestic league last season, will compete for the DFL-Supercup against VfB Stuttgart in 10 days’ time.
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