Gabriel Jesus has opened up on his Arsenal exit, claiming Mikel Arteta forced him out of the club before joining Barcelona.
Gabriel Jesus speaking into a microphone
Gabriel Jesus opened up on his Arsenal exit. (Image: SportyTV)
Gabriel Jesus has fired a parting shot at Arsenal, claiming that Mikel Arteta forced him to train on his own before securing a move to Barcelona. The Brazilian forward left in the closing days of the transfer window for a fee in the region of £8.5million, having fallen down the pecking order behind Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres.
Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli, were left out of Arsenal's squad for the Community Shield demolition of Manchester City. Publicly, Arteta claimed that both were still in his plans, but they departed soon after. Jesus has now claimed that he was isolated from training sessions before he completed a switch to La Liga.
Speaking to SportyTV, Jesus said: "So, the truth is, I was training, I did all the pre-season with Arsenal as normal. Obviously, I knew already that probably I would not play there or get many opportunities, but nobody told me nothing.
"Well, I am a professional. Obviously I was training with the group. Then, from nothing, they put me to train away from the group.
"Well, I was training, I was doing my maximum to be ready if I have a chance to play at a high level again. Then, obviously, in the last week it was very quick.
"The work with Deco, the president of the club, and my agent was amazing. In one day, it was sure that I would have the opportunity to come (to Barcelona). I said yes, straight away, no matter what and I am so happy to be here."
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Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal FC and Como Calcio at Emirates Stadium on August 1
Gabriel Jesus was frozen out at Arsenal. (Image: Getty)
Following confirmation of Jesus' switch to the Nou Camp, Arteta paid tribute to the departing player during a recent press conference, stating: "Gabi's gone to Barcelona, which I take the opportunity as well to give him a huge thank you.
"He was a massive contributor for us to change the dynamic and the energy in and around this club. I think when Gabi came in he brought this energy, this belief within, this aura, that's really helped achieve what happened next.
"And now, yeah, he has an amazing opportunity to enjoy one of the biggest clubs in the world, and a beautiful place to live as well, and we are happy for him."
Jesus' fellow Brazilian Martinelli also departed during the closing days of the transfer window. Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Hilal secured his signature for approximately £60m in a transaction which established the forward as Arsenal's record sale.