While his playing time was in danger of becoming scarce at City, the Brazilian international did not choose the Gunners by chance.

"I followed Arsenal when I was young thanks to Henry, launched the 25-year-old right-hander. Obviously I did not follow many European teams but when I saw which players were playing here, I said to myself +Wow, it's a great club+."

"Since the day I knew I could come and play at Arsenal, I've been happy, continued Jesus. I know the staff, I know some players, the Brazilians. I know there are a lot of top players. level."

In London, the center-forward will find Mikel Arteta, assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City before taking over as head of Arsenal.

"We spoke several times about the club, the players, the project and the future," assured Jesus of his talks with the Spanish coach.

"I believe 100% in Mikel. I had great times with him before, he is a very good guy and a very good coach. He helped me a lot. We always stayed together after training sessions. training to work on finishing or something else."

- "A high quality player" -

Gabriel Jesus has signed "a long-term contract", the London club said in its press release without giving further details.

The amount of the transfer is estimated by the British press at 45 million pounds (52.3 M EUR).

"We are delighted to have signed a player of the caliber of Gabriel Jesus (...) He is 25 years old, he is a confirmed Brazilian international who consistently shows that he is a high quality player," said his compatriot Edu, sporting director of Arsenal.

Since arriving in England in January 2017, the former Palmeiras striker has won eleven trophies, including four Premier League titles.

He played 236 matches for City and scored 95 goals.

Manchester City's Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus (L) and Manchester City's English midfielder Jack Grealish (R) with the Premier League trophy after the Premier League game against Aston Villa, in Manchester, May 22, 2022 Oli SCARFF AFP / Archives

"It was a pleasure to play for City," said Gabriel Jesus in the statement from the Mancunian club.

"I feel like I've become a better player since I arrived and winning all those trophies has been amazing," he added.

Manchester City, who have recruited Norwegian prodigy Erling Haaland, are also on the verge of parting with England international striker Raheem Sterling, announced by the British press leaving for Chelsea.

© 2022 AFP