Brazil legend Ronaldinho has backed Gabriel Jesus to increase his stock and prove that he is one of Europe’s best players this season.
Jesus completed a summer switch from Manchester City to Arsenal and has already made a big impact at the Emirates in a short period of time.
The 25-year-old enjoyed a brilliant pre-season campaign, where he scored seven goals in total from five appearances.
Jesus then carried those brilliant performances to the new season as he enjoyed a home debut to remember, scoring twice and assisting twice in a 4-2 victory over Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium.
Jesus has helped the Gunners claim maximum in each of their opening two Premier League matches this season and will be hoping to do more of the same against Bournemouth at the weekend.
The 25-year-old did impress at City but had to play second-fiddle for most of the time due to the presence of Sergio Aguero. Now the main man and the focal point of attack in Arsenal’s squad, Ronaldinho can see his compatriot hitting different heights.
Ronaldinho backs Jesus to shine at Arsenal
Ronaldinho thinks Jesus was never given the respect he deserved during his time at Manchester City.
“When Gabriel joined Manchester City I said he would go on to be one of the best players in the world. When he was given a chance, he showed what he was capable of – but at Manchester City he was never shown the love a player of his quality deserves,’ Ronaldinho told the Mirror.”
“At Arsenal he has been given the chance to be the focal point, he has been shown the love by the coach and the fans, and already he is repaying that.”
“This season I expect big things from him – he will repay the love shown in him by showing he is not just one of the best players in the Premier League but also in Europe.”
Arsenal have missed out on the Champions League since 2016 but Ronaldinho is confident the Gunners will qualify for Europe’s top-tier club competition this time around, with a top-four finish, and even thinks a title challenge is not out of reach.
“Arsenal will get back into the top four this season with the signings they have made – maybe they can even achieve more and challenge for the title,” Ronaldinho added.
“Manchester City look very strong and they will be favourites – but in football anything is possible.”
It’s still early days but Arsenal have set the tone for themselves and look like they can challenge this season. Their fixtures still look rather kind but October will come as a genuine litmus test to see if their ambitions are credible or not.
