Gabriel Jesus Discusses Knee-Injury Fears, Ronaldo Recovery Advice

Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus has said he is "scared" about the knee injury he is recovering from and revealed he has turned to Brazil legend Ronaldo for advice.

The City starlet hasn't played since December 31 after picking up the problem against Crystal Palace. He suffered ligament damage, and while manager Pep Guardiola said he would be back in around six weeks, the 20-year-old is yet to return to action.

"That moment was complicated because I had thoughts about the national team [and the World Cup], about the rest of the season—I thought of everything," he said, per Ryan Benson of Goal. "I'm hitting the ball a little bit now. I missed that a lot, but I'm still a little scared. In a week, I'll spend more days hitting the ball and, in a short time, I'll train with the team again."

Jesus also said he reached out to Selecao icon Ronaldo, who suffered two serious knee problems in his own career, for guidance.

"He's conquered everything, but is still humble and great company. I'm proud to be able to have his help and advice," the City man said.

Jesus posted a snap of himself alongside Ronaldo and Paris Saint-Germain striker Kylian Mbappe:

Guardiola also recently provided an update on the condition of the Brazil international, saying he isn't far away from a return:

When Jesus picked up the problem, there were initial fears that he would be out for a long time, as his leg appeared to contort awkwardly as he fell to the ground.

From the player's perspective, there would have been huge relief that serious damage was avoided, and while it's taken a little longer than anticipated, it appears as though Jesus will be ready to play a part in what promises to be a thrilling end to the season for City.

As relayed by Scouted Football, Jesus seemed to be fearing the worst when he was substituted against Palace:

Per Tifo Football, Jesus had enjoyed a remarkable start to his City career prior to his layoff, having joined from Palmeiras in the 2017 January window.

If City are going to complete what'd be a remarkable quadruple of trophies—they are in a great position to win the Carabao Cup and the Premier League, and making serene progress in the UEFA Champions League and the FA Cup—you sense Jesus will play a big part.

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Guardiola evidently admires the youngster, and he was often chosen to spearhead the attack at the expense of Sergio Aguero earlier in the season. His dynamism, versatility and intelligence in the final third make the Brazilian difficult to stop.

When he does return, it may take the City No. 33 time to get reacquainted with the thrust of English and European football. But given just how imperious City have been in recent weeks, there's no need to hurry Jesus back into the side and risk any further complications.