Jesus reveals he was exiled from Arsenal training days before Barcelona move was confirmed

Gabriel Jesus has revealed he was made to train away from his Arsenal teammates in the days leading up to his surprise transfer to Barcelona, which was completed in the final hours of the summer window.

The 29-year-old Brazilian striker left the Emirates Stadium after four years that brought a Premier League winner’s medal but were ultimately hampered by injuries, limiting him to 123 appearances. Speaking to SportyTV, Jesus described the sequence of events that led to his Camp Nou switch.

“I did all the pre-season with Arsenal as normal,” Jesus said. “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.”

Despite the isolation, Jesus said he remained focused. “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.”

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta paid tribute to the striker after the move was confirmed. “Gabi’s gone to Barcelona, which I take the opportunity as well to give him a huge thank you,” Arteta said. “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 he has an amazing opportunity to enjoy one of the biggest clubs in the world.”

Jesus has already made his Barcelona debut, coming off the bench in a 5-0 victory over Valencia. Arsenal, meanwhile, open their own Champions League campaign against Napoli, looking to go one better than last season when they were beaten in the final by Paris Saint-Germain.