Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus is realistically facing an uphill battle to make Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad – but he is clearly not giving up just yet.
The 28-year-old has struggled for rhythm this season, and is in the middle of a doubtful picture concerning his future in North London.
Injuries have limited his involvement again, and his minutes remain low. He has made 21 appearances in all competitions, starting just seven, scoring five goals and providing one assist.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s current striker pool is producing, and competition under Carlo Ancelotti is intense. Based on his season so far, it would take a significant turnaround for Gabriel Jesus to force his way back into contention.
Still, he believes.
“Until the end”
Speaking to Globo Esporte, Gabriel Jesus openly admitted that his club situation is not helping his chances.
“I hadn’t been playing for my club, and that makes it difficult because there are other players who are playing, scoring goals, and performing. At the same time, I also have a lot of faith in myself, in my ability, in what I’ve shown”.
That is the reality he is dealing with. However, he made it clear he is not giving up on the idea of another World Cup.
“I believe until the end, if an opportunity arises, my name will always be on the radar. Obviously, as I said, you have to play for the club, you have to perform, you have to earn your place there”, he said.
“I know there are names ahead of me, but if an opportunity arises, I think my name is on the radar”.
Learning the role of a number nine
Gabriel Jesus also reflected on how his role has evolved over time, especially with Brazil.
“The person who wears Brazil’s number 9 shirt, the first focus has to be scoring goals and not other things.”
That line carries weight. Earlier in his international career, he was often criticised for prioritising defensive work and link-up play over finishing. Now, he sees things differently.
“That’s something I’ve learned and carry with me today, in any opportunity I get.”
Experience and versatility still count
Gabriel Jesus has already played in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. That experience is something he still sees as an advantage. He also pointed to his versatility as a key factor in keeping him relevant.
“I have the ability to score goals, create chances, provide assists and open spaces. I can also play on the wings, and that helps me.”
That flexibility has always defined his game. At Arsenal, he has often been used across the front line rather than as a fixed striker.
He also noted that, despite not having worked directly with Ancelotti, he has faced his teams before, including Real Madrid and Everton during his Manchester City days.
Pathway to the World Cup dream
Beyond tactics and numbers, Gabriel Jesus also touched on his personal journey. Reflecting on the well-known image of him painting the streets of São Paulo before the 2018 World Cup, he said:
“It represents someone who tried to succeed without stepping on anyone, without doing anything wrong. I always had the desire to make things happen.”
That mindset still drives him now, even in a more uncertain moment of his career.
For Gabriel Jesus, the equation is quite simple. He needs minutes. He needs goals. And he needs momentum before the end of the season. Without that, a World Cup call looks unlikely. With it, there is still a small window.
Right now, the odds are against him. But as his own words make clear, he is not ready to let go of the idea just yet.