Gabriel Jesus has spoken about his pride at his long Premier League career, as his Arsenal future remains unresolved.
The striker continues to be linked with Napoli, although there has been no significant progress towards a transfer. Globo Esporte reported earlier this month that Arsenal would listen to offers starting at €20m (£17.3m).
Napoli have since been working on departures to create the financial conditions for a move. For now, though, Jesus remains an Arsenal player and has started another Premier League season.
Globo Esporte return to his situation on Thursday, this time after speaking directly to the 29-year-old.
Jesus proud of Premier League longevity
The Brazilian is now in his tenth consecutive season in the Premier League. Under Globo’s criteria, that makes him the fifth longest-serving foreign player currently in the competition.
Jesus arrived at Manchester City as a 19-year-old in 2017. He made his league debut against Tottenham on January 21st that year.
“When I arrived in the Premier League in 2017, I never imagined I would build such a long career in the competition,” Jesus told Globo Esporte.
“Today, it’s almost 10 years living this league and facing the challenges it presents every season.
“Looking back and seeing that I’ve managed to enter the list of Brazilians with the most goals and titles in England makes me very proud.
“Those numbers represent more than just results. They also show consistency, daily work and the ability to remain at a high level in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.”
The Arsenal forward has 79 Premier League goals. That leaves him three behind Roberto Firmino’s Brazilian record.
Jesus also has five Premier League titles, four with Manchester City and one with Arsenal. Only Ederson has won more among Brazilians, with six.
Arsenal future still hanging over him
Those comments don’t directly address the interest from Napoli, but they do underline Jesus’ attachment to English football. That’s relevant given the decision he could soon face.
Globo previously explained that Jesus has great affection for Arsenal and wants to chase those individual records. At the same time, he views Napoli as a possible destination and wants more regular football.
There is still no indication they have reached Arsenal’s €20m (£17.3m) starting point. Jesus therefore continues adding to his long spell in England while Napoli work out whether they can afford to end it.
His comments certainly don’t sound like those of someone desperate to leave the Premier League. With those Brazilian records within reach, Arsenal still have something working in their favour if Napoli eventually come knocking.
