Gabriel Jesus says Arsenal training exile preceded Barcelona move

Gabriel Jesus says he was unexpectedly separated from Arsenal’s first-team squad during the final stages of his time at the club, before completing a deadline-day move to Barcelona.

The Brazil international joined the Catalan giants in a deal worth up to 15m euros, signing a three-year contract after four seasons in north London.

Jesus, 29, said he had taken part in Arsenal’s pre-season programme as usual and understood that competition for places could restrict his playing time. However, he claimed he had not been told the club planned to move him on.

“I already knew that, probably, I wouldn’t play as much or wouldn’t have as many opportunities. But nobody told me anything,” Jesus told SportyTV.

“I’m a professional, obviously I was training with the group, and out of nowhere they put me to train apart from the group.”

The forward said he continued to work hard and remain prepared in case Arsenal needed him, despite being uncertain about his future. His position then changed quickly during the final week of the transfer window.

Jesus was not included in Arsenal’s matchday squads for their opening Premier League fixtures against Coventry City and Aston Villa. Barcelona subsequently emerged as a possible destination, with the deal eventually completed on deadline day.

He credited Barcelona sporting director Deco, the club’s president and his agent with helping to finalise the transfer. Jesus said he did not hesitate when the opportunity to join the Spanish club became clear.

“When we were sure that I had the opportunity to come, obviously I said yes straight away, no matter what. Now I’m so happy to be here,” he said.

Jesus’ Arsenal career ended with 32 goals in 123 appearances. Injuries and competition for places affected his involvement, and he made only three Premier League starts during Arsenal’s title-winning campaign last season.

His move brings an end to a four-year spell in the Premier League, during which he became part of Arsenal’s attacking options but was unable to establish a sustained run in the starting side.

The transfer to Barcelona gives Jesus a fresh opportunity after his increasingly limited role at Arsenal. While he had anticipated fewer chances to play, his account indicates that the decision to train away from the main group came as a surprise before the move was agreed.