2 key reasons why Gabriel Jesus decided to join Arsenal

Arsenal sure took their time with the reveal, but Gabriel Jesus was finally announced as a Gooner on Monday morning after a £45m deal was agreed with Manchester City over a week ago.

The Brazilian was long identified as a priority target this summer following the exits of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette, but the Gunners were forced to beat out several competitors for the forward’s signature.

Jesus, who had just a year left on his contract with City, helped the Cityzens to their fourth Premier League title under Pep Guardiola last season and is believed to have received several proposals from clubs competing in next season’s Champions League.

Yet he opted to join Arsenal, who were pipped to a top-four spot by bitter rivals Spurs following a stuttering end to the campaign.

Gabriel Jesus reveals the two key reasons why he decided to join Arsenal

In his first interview with the club, Arsenal’s new number nine revealed why he opted to join the Gunners this summer.

First, he cited manager Mikel Arteta as key in his decision-making process. The Spaniard spent three years with Jesus at City as Guardiola’s assistant and he was able to sell his project at the Emirates to the 25-year-old.

Speaking on Arteta’s influence, Jesus said: “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.”

Jesus also noted his admiration for Arsenal in the past, as well as the influence of a particular monarch in north London.

“I followed Arsenal when I was young because of [Thierry] Henry,” the Brazilian said. “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.”

We’re sure you will, Gabi. We’re sure you will.