Gabriel Jesus set to bring a potent Real Madrid record to Barcelona

Gabriel Jesus is expected to strengthen Barcelona’s attack after the club targeted an experienced centre-forward following the departures of Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski.

The 29-year-old Brazil international is awaiting official confirmation of his move to Barcelona, having previously played for Manchester City and Arsenal. His record against Real Madrid will add particular interest to the proposed transfer: in four previous meetings with the Spanish club, Jesus has scored three times and provided one assist, recording three wins and one defeat, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Jesus first faced Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of the 2019-20 Champions League last 16. He quickly demonstrated his effectiveness in the fixture, heading Manchester City level after Isco had given the hosts the lead.

Kevin De Bruyne then converted a penalty to put City 2-1 ahead. Jesus also played a part in Sergio Ramos being shown a red card late in the match, ruling the Real Madrid captain out of the return leg.

The second meeting, at the Etihad Stadium, proved even more productive for the Brazilian. On two occasions, he pressed Raphael Varane aggressively and helped create the opening goal, delivering the pass from which Raheem Sterling scored.

Jesus then completed the comeback himself with a composed finish to secure a 2-1 victory. His contribution was crucial as Manchester City progressed to the quarter-finals.

There was then a two-season gap before Jesus met Real Madrid again, this time in the semi-finals of the 2021-22 Champions League. His goalscoring run against Los Blancos continued in the first leg at the Etihad Stadium.

The Sao Paulo-born forward scored Manchester City’s second goal with a controlled finish inside the penalty area as his side won a thrilling match 4-3.

Jesus could not find the net in the return at the Santiago Bernabeu, however, and Real Madrid produced a dramatic turnaround. He played for 78 minutes and left the field with City leading 1-0, but Rodrygo’s late goals forced extra time.

Karim Benzema completed Real Madrid’s comeback by scoring a penalty, sending his side through despite Jesus having again made an impact across the tie.

As an Arsenal player, Jesus was due to face Real Madrid in the quarter-finals of the 2024-25 Champions League. He was unable to take part after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament tear in his left knee, although Arsenal eliminated Real Madrid by winning both matches, 3-0 and 2-1.

The expected move to Barcelona would give Jesus another opportunity to face Real Madrid, this time in one of Spanish football’s biggest rivalries. Until now, the Brazilian has proved a persistent problem for the club and will hope to reproduce that record in Barcelona colours.

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