Marc Guehi, one of Crystal Palace’s most consistent defenders, has faced some of the world’s top attackers. But when asked to name his toughest opponent, his response surprised many. The England international, who has earned 22 caps and featured in the Euro 2024 final against Spain, picked Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus as the player who gave him the most difficult match of his career.
Since joining Palace from Chelsea in 2021, Guehi has become a key figure in the Premier League and the England national team. His defensive prowess has seen him battle elite forwards, yet it was Jesus who made the biggest impression on him. Speaking to Stadium Astro, Guehi recalled, “That first half against Jesus when he had just joined Arsenal was probably the toughest half I’ve ever had.
Jesus, known for his dynamic movement and relentless energy, has often divided opinion with his inconsistent performances. However, the Brazilian hit a rich vein of form over the festive period, tormenting Palace with five goals across two games. This dominant display even led Guehi’s defensive partner, Maxence Lacroix, to echo his sentiment.
While many defenders dread facing physical strikers like Erling Haaland, Lacroix admitted he prefers that kind of challenge. “I like playing against Haaland because you know it’s going to be a fight. But Jesus runs a lot, and that makes it really tough.”
Despite his impressive December form, Jesus has now been sidelined with a season-ending ACL injury sustained in Arsenal’s FA Cup clash against Manchester United. His absence, coupled with Kai Havertz’s hamstring injury, has left Mikel Arteta scrambling for attacking options, forcing him to use Mikel Merino as an emergency striker.
The Brazilian forward, under contract with Arsenal until 2027, was rumored to be on the transfer list this summer as the club looked to raise funds for a new striker. However, his injury has forced the Gunners to reconsider, potentially delaying any sale plans.
With Arsenal’s attacking depth now in question, all eyes will be on how Arteta navigates the remainder of the season without his top forwards. Will the Gunners reinforce their attack in the summer window, or will Jesus fight his way back to reclaim his spot? Only time will tell.
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