Gabriel Jesus is finally leaving Palmeiras for the last time. The player, who was officially signed by Manchester City in August, stayed at the Brazilian club for a few more months so he could fight for the league title.
It was all worth it, as Palmeiras won their first league trophy in 22 years, having the homegrown boy as their main star.
Jesus gave a farewell press conference at the club today, so he could recall all the moments he lived for Palmeiras, where he arrived when at sixteen. But the Manchester City transfer was obviously the biggest subject of the interview, so he gave all the details about the move.
The now 19-year-old was asked who he’s taking to live with him in Manchester and said: “If I could, I’d take all the ones who are with me since my growth. I’m much connected to my neighbourhood, Jardim Peri, every time I’m having a day off at home, I go there. If I could, I’d take the entire neighbourhood there, and would make a Jardim Peri in England (laughs). It’s a place where I have peace.
The striker, who recently had a trip to Manchester so he could get to know the people and the facilities, also revealed he’s already asked the club for a shirt number. “I had told them it’s hard without the 33 (laughs). I want this number because I used it since I was promoted at Palmeiras.”
Gabriel Jesus also commented on many Portuguese and Spanish speakers already being in Manchester City’s squad, so it won’t be hard to communicate.
“Thankfully there are two Brazilians, Argentines, Spaniards, it well help me a lot. I’m very happy with the manager’s effort to assure that I adapt myself as quickly as possible so I can show my football and keep playing. Now I’m going there, I’ll enjoy it, rest, and after the moment I start wearing the shirt, show my best.
“I’ll keep my head always focused on improving. The future belongs to God. I don’t know what will happen, I’m going to work hard and show it there. I’m very happy to have a friendship with Fernandinho, Fernando, Guardiola… They told me everything and will help me a lot there.”
The young Brazilian clearly sounds excited about his new life, but it’s big step and there’s bound to be some nerves. Guardiola and Manchester City will be well aware of that, and make every effort so Jesus thinks it’s just like Jardim Peri.
Luckily, the number 33 shirt is vacant.
