Gabriel Jesus has claimed Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta instructed him to train alone before he was sold to Barcelona. The Brazilian was flogged to the Catalans in the final days of the transfer window for around £8.57m.
Jesus had fallen behind Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres in the pecking order in north London before the La Liga heavyweights made an offer. After Jesus, along with Gabriel Martinelli, was omitted from the Gunners' Community Shield squad, which beat Manchester City, Arteta initially said they were both important to Arsenal.
However, Jesus' most recent comments suggest there was a sea change in Arteta's thinking. The ex-City forward has claimed he was made to train on his own, away from his team-mates, before his exit, as he appeared to hit out at the club.
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Speaking to SportyTV, Jesus said: "So, the truth is, I was training, I did all the pre-season with Arsenal as normal. Obviously, I knew already that probably I would not play there or get many opportunities, but nobody told me nothing.
"Well, I am a professional. Obviously, I was training with the group. Then, from nothing, they put me to train away from the group.
"Well, I was training, I was doing my maximum to be ready if I have a chance to play at a high level again. Then, obviously, in the last week, it was very quick. Jesus wore an Arsenal shirt for the last time in the pre-season friendly against Como -Credit:2026 James Gill - Danehouse
"The work with Deco, the president of the club, and my agent was amazing. In one day, it was sure that I would have the opportunity to come (to Barcelona). I said yes, straight away, no matter what, and I am so happy to be here."
When Jesus' move to the Nou Camp was confirmed, Arteta offered him a warm farewell message during a recent press conference, saying: "Gabi's gone to Barcelona, which I take the opportunity as well to give him a huge thank you.
"He was a massive contributor for us to change the dynamic and the energy in and around this club. I think when Gabi came in he brought this energy, this belief within, this aura, that's really helped achieve what happened next. Jesus recently made his debut for Barcelona -Credit:2026 Pedro Salado
"And now, yeah, he has an amazing opportunity to enjoy one of the biggest clubs in the world, and a beautiful place to live as well, and we are happy for him.'
Jesus' Brazilian compatriot Martinelli was also flogged in the final week of the transfer window. Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal purchased him for around £60m in a deal which made the forward the most lucrative sale in Arsenal history.
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