Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus appears open to a return to Palmeiras, though he insists the timing isn’t right for a move.
Gabriel Jesus’ future has been a massive talking point in recent months as he has gone down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta. While he is currently sidelined with a ligament tear, even when fit, the Brazilian has found it very difficult to find a place in the Spanish manager’s XI.
The Brazilian international has been linked with a return to his homeland, and his former club Palmeiras are very much in the mix to sign him. While he is ready to join them, an Arsenal exit is not yet on the cards.
While speaking about his future, Gabriel Jesus said via the Mirror: “When I feel it’s time to return to Palmeiras, I’ll decide that with Arsenal, but we’re talking about a player who’s been out for nine months and is now fighting to get back into the team, and there are journalists who are talking without any basis whatsoever.”
After making a name for himself at Palmeiras, the 28-year-old had an impressive five-year-long stint at Manchester City. On the back of his performances in the Premier League, the Gunners secured his services in the summer of 2022 in a deal worth £45 million.
While he was an integral part of their plans in the initial years, Gabriel Jesus has struggled with injuries in the recent past. He has slowly gone down the pecking order at the club. Since he is not a part of Arteta’s plans, the former City star could end up pushing for a move away.
The 28-year-old forward is currently on the treatment table, but he is expected to be back before the start of the new year. Gabriel Jesus is planning on having a strong second half of the season, as he wants to make a case for a place in the Brazil squad for the World Cup.
Gabriel Jesus could join Palmeiras
If he struggles to get regular game time, he could certainly push for a move away. While clubs like Everton are keen on his signature, Arsenal are not willing to let him join a rival club in England.
Palmeiras have emerged as a potential destination for the Brazilian international. They seek more quality in the final third and feel their academy graduate could help their cause.
While Gabriel Jesus is ready to join his childhood club, he suggested that he would only make the move when he feels the time is right. He certainly doesn’t seem that keen on returning to his homeland this early.