Arsenal have finally announced the arrival of Gabriel Jesus on a long-term deal from Manchester City. The Brazilian decided to go for a new challenge and will now star at the Emirates until 2027 after joining on a five-year deal. The Gunners paid £45m for his signature and saw off interest from the likes of Chelsea, Tottenham and Juventus to sign the Brazilian.
Jesus has won the Premier League title four times, the FA Cup, and the League Cup three times in his five-year stay in the Premier League so far. He is also a starter in the Brazil national team, making 56 appearances and scoring 19 times since making his international debut in 2016.
Speaking on his move to Arsenal, Jesus highlighted several reasons that saw him pick the Gunners over other sides but narrowed down on two crucial factors.
Gabriel Jesus credit’s Arteta influence as key reason he joined Arsenal
Jesus already has a good relationship with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, having worked with the Spaniard during his time as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City. The 25-year-old credits their time together as a key reason that made him choose the Gunners, while expressing his happiness to be reunited with a familiar face.
“We spoke a couple of times about the club, the players, the project and the future. I believe 100 per cent in Mikel. I had a very good time with him before, he’s a very good guy and a very good coach as well.
“He helped me a lot [at Manchester City]. We would always stick together after the training sessions and do some finishing or something. He’s a very intelligent guy and was an amazing player, so if he knows something he can teach me or the young players.”
Asides Arteta’s influence, Jesus, like many other players, was intrigued by the club’s history, having watched several top players play for the Gunners as a kid, with Thierry Henry being the pick of the pack.
“I followed Arsenal when I was young because of [Thierry] Henry,” Jesus added. “Obviously I didn’t follow too many European teams but when I saw some of the players that played here, I was like “wow, this club is big.” When I played against Arsenal I was looking at the Emirates and it was a very good stadium, so I’m very excited to play here.
“I’m so happy to sign for this big club. Since day one when I knew I could come to play for Arsenal, I was happy. I know the staff, I know some players, the Brazilian ones. I know there are a lot of top players. They are young and I’m still young as well, so I am so happy to be here to help. I come to help, to learn as well and to try to do my best.”
Where will Jesus play at Arsenal?
It is no secret that Jesus can play across several attacking positions but he has reiterated his desire to play centrally and claims he feels most effective in that position.
“I’m a No 9! I’m a striker, you know”, he added.
“I’m so glad and I thank God every day that I can be alive, and that I can play in three or four different positions, but I think my position is nine.”
