Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus has given one of his most open interviews to date. He spoke to Globo Esporte about his recovery, his life in London and his ambitions for the years ahead.
The 28-year-old mixed long reflections with sharp memories, and the result offers a detailed look at a player who feels more mature, settled and ready for a new chapter.
Returning for Arsenal after ten months out
Jesus is finally cleared to play again after a long knee injury. He described the moment of the setback and the shock that followed. “I thought it was nothing serious. I even played for another 10 or 15 minutes. When the doctor told me I had damaged the entire knee, that’s when it hit me.”
The forward admitted the timeline felt overwhelming at first, especially when he learned that the recovery could reach 12 months. “The doctor said it would be at least a year. But I recovered well. I worked hard. And being with my family helped me stay calm.”
He spent two months in Brazil for the birth of his son, delaying his return to on-pitch training so he could support his wife. That time away made the process healthier for him. He said his age helped too. “I’m only 28. I know I can return well. I have faith in that.”
Life in London and how it shaped him
Bergamo, Italy – 19-09-2024 – Uefa Champions League – Atalanta Bc-Arsenal Fc – Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal Fc.
Jesus has lived in England for almost a decade, and he says London changed the way he sees Brazil. He noted the impact of public spaces, safety and routine. “Where I come from in Brazil, there are no parks. Here, five minutes from home, there’s a park where you can go with your family. It makes a big difference.”
He also spoke about getting around the city. “Sometimes I take Uber to go to dinner or even to training. It’s normal here.” Recognition still happens, but in a softer way. “If the driver supports Tottenham, he doesn’t insult me. He just takes a picture and joke, like ‘come to Tottenham!’.”
Pressure in England vs Brazil
Jesus drew a clear line between the daily pressure a player faces in England and in Brazil. “Here, if we lose a game, we go to dinner with our family. People don’t attack you in a restaurant. In Brazil it can be different. The reaction can be much stronger.”
He said he understands the passion, but believes the English environment allows players to recover emotionally between matches. “Fans here respect the moment. They know players have lives too.”
His role on the pitch
The Arsenal forward rejected the idea of having one strict position. “I don’t want a label,” he said. He explained that he performs well both inside the box and out wide. His flexibility is something he values. “I came from the wing. I like moving, helping, creating. I’m not someone who stays 90 minutes in the box without touching the ball.”
He also clarified a comment from 2023 that became a talking point. “I didn’t mean scoring isn’t my strength. I said that if you compare my numbers with classic No. 9s, they will have more goals. But my game has other parts. I score goals, but I create plays too.”
Working with Arteta
Arteta was a central figure in the interview. Jesus praised the manager’s intensity and methodical approach. “He breathes football. He wants to win every single day. And he sacrifices himself for that,” Jesus said.
He believes Arsenal are progressing step by step and hopes the team can soon lift a trophy that reflects the project’s ambition.
Family, faith and maturity
The Brazilian highlighted how being a father changed his perspective. “My kids made me stronger. They helped me grow.” He also said faith gives him balance and confidence in the recovery process.
Just as importantly, the forward feels more comfortable with topics that once bothered him. His childhood without a father, the weight of the 2018 World Cup and the early criticism he faced no longer feel like unresolved wounds. He sees them as chapters that shaped him.
Looking ahead
Jesus wants to return to the Brazilian national team and sees many years of high-level football ahead. He even mentioned a long-term dream: “Winning a Club World Cup with Palmeiras one day.”
For now, though, his focus is clear. He wants to help Arsenal fight for major titles, regain rhythm after injury and fully embrace the next stage of his career.
Gabriel Jesus also spoke about Pep Guardiola and how special the Manchester City manager was for him.
