Before Tottenham Hotspur signed Richarlison, the north London club was linked to former Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus. However, the 25-year-old would ultimately choose their north London rivals, Arsenal, and he shed light on what convinced him to join The Gunners.
Brazilian media outlet Globo Esporte relayed the remarks made by Jesus, who arrived after Arsenal paid £45 million. The forward stated that he’s a striker and wanted to play the No. 9 role, which would be difficult at Spurs, considering Harry Kane holds that role.
Jesus stated that he could play various positions, but it seems as though his heart is set on being a striker. At Arsenal, the Brazil international doesn’t face a mountain of competition to secure regular minutes at that position.
“I’m number 9! I’m a striker. I can play in three or four different positions, but I think my position is 9. I’m a striker, I have to score goals, I come to score, to help with assists, with everything. I want to score goals,” Jesus said.
Furthermore, the striker stated that once the meeting with Arsenal occurred, it seemed he was sold on their project to join them for next season.
“We talked a few times about the club, about the players, about the project, the future. It was really good, it was amazing. I trust Mikel 100%; I had a really good time with him. He’s a really nice guy and a great coach too,” Jesus said.
The financial side might have also persuaded Jesus to head to the Emirates Stadium, considering he’ll make £10 million per season and is Arsenal’s highest-paid player thus far. Jesus is still the fifth biggest signing in the club’s history and the 10th most expensive Brazilian.
