Gabriel Jesus eyes Champions League success with Barcelona: ‘It would be a dream come true for me’ | OneFootball

Gabriel Jesus has officially begun his Barcelona career, arriving from Arsenal as Hansi Flick’s new No. 9 after completing a permanent transfer to the Spanish champions.

The Brazilian forward has signed a three-year contract that will keep him at Barcelona until 2029, with the club paying Arsenal €10 million for his services. 

The agreement can rise by a further €4m through variables, while Arsenal have also retained a 20% sell-on clause.

For Jesus, though, the financial details were secondary when he spoke at his official presentation. 

After a difficult period at Arsenal, the 29-year-old made it clear that joining Barcelona represents an opportunity he has been waiting for.

“Things have moved very quickly. Everyone knows me; I’ve had a bit of a tough time over the last two years, but apart from that, everyone is aware of my quality.”

The Brazilian made it clear that he wants to become an active part of Barcelona’s attack rather than simply compete for a place in the squad.

“I’m really looking forward to being here; I’m thrilled to be at a club as big as Barcelona. I’d like to thank Deco, the manager and the chairman for their trust in me.”

Jesus explains how the Barcelona move happened

Jesus has already had his first taste of life at Camp Nou (he was in attendance at the 5-2 win over Rayo) and admitted that seeing Barcelona play strengthened his desire to become part of the team.

“I want to be there. I was watching the match at the Camp Nou – my first time there – and all I could see in my mind were the positives. 

“I wanted to be helping my teammates, who are such talented players.”

The forward revealed that he had been working towards the possibility of a move before receiving confirmation that Barcelona were genuinely interested.

“I was confident that something was going to happen. I knew that if I did things right, anything was possible.

“I was working hard at Arsenal, away from the other players, but always giving my all.

“A week ago I got the message that it might happen. When I started to realise it was a real possibility, I was absolutely delighted. 

“Now we have to start training and playing so that everyone is happy.”

His arrival comes after two difficult seasons, during which injuries prevented him from maintaining the consistency he wanted at Arsenal. 

Jesus acknowledged that period but insisted he is now ready to contribute immediately.

“The injury situation is clear. The last two years have been very difficult. The knee injury almost kept me out for a year.

“I’m in great shape, physically speaking. My knee is no longer a problem. I made a full recovery and returned to action with Arsenal in fine form. My knee and my body are fine, ready to give my all.”

Jesus refuses to worry about Julian Alvarez

One of the obvious questions surrounding his arrival was whether Barcelona had turned to Jesus after failing to sign Julian Alvarez.

Interestingly, the Brazilian does not care about that narrative.

“It doesn’t bother me. It offends me when people say I’m not good, and it bothers me not to play football.

“Now, I’ve got the chance to be here at Barça. I had it 10 years ago, but life took me down a different path.

“But now I’m here and I always want to do my best. I’m a hard-working guy and hard work always pays off. I’m not interested in what people say on the outside.”

Furthermore, the new Barcelona signing has already begun establishing relationships inside the dressing room, too.

“I spoke to Raphinha when everything was almost sorted. It all happened very quickly. 

“He messaged me and we had a chat. I’ve also spoken to Canelo, Eric García and Rodri from City. They’ve all told me great things about Barcelona and the club.

“Many Brazilian legends have played here, and they’ve all left their mark on this great club. 

“I’ve said it many times: I used to skip school to watch Ronaldinho, Deco… play in the Champions League. Especially Ronaldinho, who was one of the greatest Brazilians in history.”

Jesus already has one major Barcelona target

The 29-year-old forward did not hide the ambition that comes with joining Barcelona.

For the Brazilian, the Champions League is not just another competition. It is one of the main reasons he wanted this opportunity.

“It’s been on my mind ever since this opportunity came up. It’s a clear dream. 

“I hope Barça do well in the Champions League. It would be a dream come true for me. We’ve got a brilliant team that can achieve great things.”

Furthermore, the Brazilian also revealed that the transfer required sacrifice from both sides.

“It wasn’t just me; Barça also made a huge effort to make this signing happen.

“I took a significant pay cut, but it’s a dream to be here at Barcelona.

“Given everything that’s happened, at the age of 29, with everything I’ve been through… having the chance to be here is down to God.

“I’ve got quality; I know that. I’m really excited. I want to help. I’d like to thank Deco, the president and my agents for their efforts… but I wanted to play for Barça,” he concluded.

Source: SPORT