Updated at 15.29
MAN CITY’S FAINT hopes of catching leaders Chelsea in the Premier League title race have taken a blow amid the news that in-form teenage striker Gabriel Jesus is set for a spell on the sidelines.
The Brazilian picked up an injury and was substituted after just 15 minutes of last night’s 2-0 win over Bournemouth.
And a statement today confirmed that Jesus had suffered a fractured metatarsal — an injury that usually takes between six and eight weeks to heal.
“Manchester City can confirm Gabriel Jesus suffered a fractured metatarsal during the 2-0 win over Bournemouth on Monday night,” the club statement read.
“The 19-year-old was withdrawn from action after 15 minutes of the game and assessed by the Club’s medical staff.
“He will undergo further examinations in the coming days to establish the extent of his layoff.
“Jesus has scored three goals in five appearances for City since his move from Palmeiras was rubber-stamped in January and has received widespread praise for the way he has adapted to English football.
“We wish Gabriel a speedy recovery and we will keep you updated on his progress via the Club’s official channels in the coming days.”
Meanwhile, Ronaldinho has backed the player to tread a similar path to Lionel Messi and Neymar and become the world’s best player.
The former Barcelona star acknowledges that a man currently gracing Camp Nou is the finest on the planet.
He considers Argentine talisman Messi to be the greatest performer of his generation and believes that baton will eventually be handed to club colleague Neymar.
Ronaldinho is, however, convinced that City’s latest teenage starlet boasts the potential to grace the very top of the game.
Gabriel Jesus has enjoyed a dazzling start to his Premier League career, netting three goals in his last two appearances.
“Manchester City have a very special player with Gabriel Jesus,” two-time World Player of the Year Ronaldinho told reporters.
“Maybe even, in the future, the best player in the world.
“At the moment it is Messi. I have always said I think one day it will be Neymar. But at 19, in the future, it can be Gabriel. He has all the abilities to make that happen.”
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