Former Manchester City player and newly signed Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has explained why he chose to switch from Manchester City to Arsenal.
Gabriel Jesus transferred to the Gunners for a £45 million price. The player committed to a five-year contract with the North London club, keeping him there through June 2027. The forward player claimed that Mikel Arteta’s influence was the main factor in his decision to sign with the Gunners.
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.
Gabriel Jesus added that he had supported Arsenal fiercely when he was younger, particularly because to the legendary Thiery Henry of the Gunners.
I followed Arsenal when I was young because of Thierry Henry. 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.
With 56 appearances and 19 goals scored for the Brazilian national team, Gabriel has won the FA Cup, League Cup, and the Premier League four times each.