Gabriel Jesus says Arsenal moved him out of first-team training before Barcelona transfer
The former Arsenal forward said his departure accelerated after he was omitted from the club’s opening matches.
Gabriel Jesus says Arsenal separated him from first-team training shortly before his reported £8.6 million move to Barcelona, describing a rapid change in his position at the club.
Jesus told SportyTV that he had completed Arsenal’s pre-season programme with the squad, despite expecting limited opportunities in the new campaign. He said he was not informed before being moved to train away from the group.
The forward was then omitted from Arsenal’s squad for their opening two matches, according to the supplied report. Jesus said discussions over his departure accelerated during the final week before the transfer was completed.
He said Barcelona’s move came together within a day through sporting director Deco, the club president and his agent. Jesus joined the Spanish club on deadline day, ending a four-year spell in north London.
Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 and was credited with 123 appearances, 32 goals and 22 assists for the club. Injuries, including a cruciate ligament tear in 2025, disrupted his time at Arsenal.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Jesus’s contribution after the move was confirmed, saying the forward had helped change the energy and belief around the club. No Arsenal response to Jesus’s account of his training situation was provided in the supplied material.
