Gabriel Jesus has revealed that Arsenal suddenly ordered him to train away from his teammates shortly before his £8.6 million transfer to Barcelona.
The Brazilian forward was excluded from Arsenal’s squad for the club’s opening two matches of the season as uncertainty surrounding his future intensified.
Jesus eventually completed his move to Barcelona on transfer deadline day, bringing his four-year spell with the Gunners to an end.
Speaking to SportyTV, as reported by the Daily Mail, Jesus explained that he had participated normally in Arsenal’s pre-season preparations before the club unexpectedly separated him from the rest of the squad.
“The truth is I was training; I did all the pre-season training with Arsenal normally, and then obviously I already knew that probably I would not play there or get some opportunity,” Jesus said.
“But no one told me anything.”
The 29-year-old added that he remained professional despite the situation and continued working hard to maintain his fitness.
“I’m a professional, you know, and then obviously I was training with the group, and then from nothing they put me to train away from the group.”
Jesus said his move to Barcelona came together remarkably quickly, with negotiations involving Barcelona sporting director Deco, the club president and his agent.
“The work with Deco, the president of the club, and my agent was amazing. In one day, it was sure that I would have the opportunity to come to Barcelona.”
He added: “I said yes, straight away, no matter what, and I am so happy to be here.”
Jesus featured in all four of Arsenal’s official pre-season matches before his departure, although his playing time was limited.
He joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 after five years at the Etihad Stadium but struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter under Mikel Arteta.
A cruciate ligament injury kept him out for much of 2025 before he returned and played a role in Arsenal’s Premier League title-winning campaign.
During his four years in North London, Jesus made 123 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 32 goals and providing 22 assists.
Following the transfer, Arteta praised the Brazilian’s contribution to the club and highlighted the impact he had made during his time in North London.
“He was a massive contributor for us to change the dynamic and the energy in and around this club,” Arteta said.
“When Gabi came in, he brought this energy, this belief within, this aura, that’s really helped achieve what happened next.”
Arteta also expressed his happiness for Jesus as he begins a new chapter in Spain.
“And now, yeah, he has an amazing opportunity to enjoy one of the biggest clubs in the world, and a beautiful place to live as well, and we are happy for him.”
Jesus has already made his Barcelona debut, coming on for the final 10 minutes of their 5-0 La Liga victory over Valencia on Sunday.
