There was a common belief that Gabriel Jesus, once he had joined from Manchester City as a serial winner, would add a layer of trophy-winning expertise to Arsenal’s forward line. Three years later an exit looks inevitable.
That has not been the case and his injury-plagued spell in north London has prevented him from becoming a cult hero for the Gunners.
At the time of writing, Jesus has played 117 matches for Mikel Arteta’s men since joining in 2022 and, in that time, he’s plundered 31 goals and 22 assists.
Read More: Arsenal set to face competition from Liverpool for £50 transfer target following Mo Salah departure
Arsenal’s hefty spend last summer means that at least one first-teamer is required to be offloaded at the end of the season and Jesus is viewed as one of players that are likely to be on the chopping block.
Gabriel Jesus’ preference clear amid potential Arsenal exit
Contracted until the summer of 2027, the centre-forward can sign a pre-contract agreement with a new team at the beginning of next year – but where will the 28-year-old end up?
There is no guarantee that he will be part of the squad overhaul expected at the Emirates Stadium but with Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and a new striker expected this summer, his time in London could be coming to an end.
In truth, there’s been a massive chasm between his performances in the red of Arsenal and what supporters expected him to produce after he signed from City.
Where he will end up remains to be seen but, according a report from UOL, Gabriel Jesus’ preference is to remain in Europe.
| Club | Matches | Goals | Assists |
| Manchester City | 236 | 95 | 45 |
| Arsenal | 117 | 31 | 22 |
| Palmeiras | 83 | 28 | 8 |
| Brazil | 64 | 19 | 13 |
Recently, he was granted leave by Arsenal and he’s been pictured working on his physical conditioning at Palmeiras, a club he turned out for between 2015 and 2017 before being taken under the wing of Pep Guardiola.
Fans of the Brazilian club are, understandably, dreaming of a sensational return – but the understanding is that will only be a possibility if a club in Europe are unable to meet his demands and provide him with a decent future.
Jesus opens up on admiration for Palmeiras
Although one would claim that his expertise could be used by a number of clubs across Europe, what shouldn’t be ruled out is a return to his homeland – and Palmeiras would be the primary choice if that materialised.
Recently speaking to Globo Esporte about a potential return, he said: “I’ve always made sure to be at the training ground during breaks throughout my career.
“I think you can enjoy many things, spend time with my family and loved ones, without neglecting your health and fitness.
“Everyone knows that Palmeiras is like my home, it’s where I grew up, and I always have the doors open to go to the club, there’s not much of a secret. Arsenal and Palmeiras have an excellent relationship, and they agreed to let me train here.”
