Jesus, 19, has got off to a sensational start to life at Manchester City since finalising his £27million move from Palmeiras in January, scoring three goals in his first five appearances.
But he could now be out for months after City confirmed he has suffered a broken metatarsal after being forced off with the injury after just 15 minutes at the Vitality Stadium.
“He will undergo further examinations in the coming days to establish the extent of his layoff,” a City statement read.
City narrowed the gap between themselves and high-flying Chelsea to eight points thanks to Raheem Sterling and an own goal from Tyrone Mings last night.
But this injury will come as a huge blow to manager Pep Guardiola and City’s Premier League title hopes with their star striker being the main catalyst for their recent charge.
However, the loss of Jesus will be Sergio Aguero’s gain as he will get the chance to impress Guardiola after being dropped in favour of the Brazilian.
But Guardiola will be disappointed his prayers for Jesus have not worked.
“It will be the morning before we know the impact,’ said Guardiola last night.
“I can’t say anything else. We will just pray tonight it is not a big issue.”
Jesus’ potential long-term absence could also prove to be fatal for City’s FA Cup and Champions League hopes.
Up next for City is an FA Cup fifth round clash with Championship side Huddersfield Town at the John Smith’s Stadium on Saturday (3pm).
