Gabriel Jesus has now completed nine years in European football, in a journey divided between Manchester City and Arsenal.
As he moves into the next stage of his career, the Brazilian forward revealed to Globo Esporte that his focus is firmly on the present. At 28, he reflected on what he built in England and on what he still wants to achieve with Arsenal and Brazil.
Manchester City and the start of everything
Looking back, Jesus described his arrival at City as a moment he still remembers clearly. “I remember my arrival at City as if it were today. I was very young, but full of dreams and expectations. Can’t say I have imagined reaching where I did, setting records, winning so many trophies and playing in two World Cups.”
Beyond the silverware, he highlighted the importance of the people around him during that period. “I feel fulfilled by everything I have lived through in Europe and by having worked with so many good people, with professionals who supported me in getting to where I am today.”
Records, achievements and lessons learned
Five seasons at City brought domestic success and established Jesus as one of the most productive Brazilian forwards in Europe. That platform later carried into his move to Arsenal, where his responsibilities and role have continued to change.
For Jesus, the defining moments extend beyond goals and titles. “There were many defining moments. The first goal, the first trophy, the first call-up to the national team, which was a consequence of what I did in Europe.”
Setbacks, he said, also shaped his career and personal life. “Even the injuries need to be remembered because, as I have said many times, they made me grow as a man, a father and a husband.”
Recovery and a role in the ‘Arsenal machine’
After a long recovery from a serious knee injury, Jesus returned to action in December. Since then, he has already added goals and assists to his Arsenal record.
Now, the focus is on rhythm, fitness and contribution. “Now I really just want to get back to 100% fitness and be another piece in this ‘Arsenal machine’, helping the club with new titles and achievements.”
With Arsenal competing at the top end domestically and in Europe, Jesus knows that consistency will define what comes next. “My dream for this year is to live in the present, day by day, and help my Arsenal teammates fight for the titles this season and, of course, return to the Brazilian national team.”
That objective remains clear in his mind. “I have that as a goal, to be called up by Ancelotti. And that will depend, of course, on what I do after returning to the pitch.”
For now, Gabriel Jesus continues to balance a career built at City with ambitions still unfolding at Arsenal. The next chapter, as he made clear, depends entirely on what he delivers on the pitch.
In December, it was reported in Brazil that a move would be considered in January. That doesn’t appear to be the case any longer.