By Newsworld

Former Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has revealed that the club suddenly asked him to train away from his teammates shortly before completing his £8.6 million transfer to Barcelona on transfer deadline day.

The Brazilian striker was left out of Arsenal’s squad for the club’s opening two matches of the season as uncertainty surrounding his future intensified.

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Jesus eventually completed his move to Barcelona on deadline day, bringing an end to his four-year spell at the North London club.

Speaking to SportyTV, as reported by the Daily Mail, Jesus said he had participated normally in Arsenal’s pre-season preparations before the club unexpectedly separated him from the first-team 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.

“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.

“I was training and doing my maximum to be ready if I have the chance to play at a high level again, and then obviously in the last week it was very quick.”

Jesus said discussions involving Barcelona sporting director Deco, the club president and his agent moved rapidly, resulting in his decision to join the Spanish giants.

“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). I said yes, straight away, no matter what, and I am so happy to be here.”

The 29-year-old featured in all four of Arsenal’s official pre-season matches before his departure, although he received limited playing time.

Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 after spending five years at the Etihad Stadium. During his time with the Gunners, however, he struggled to establish himself as a consistent first-choice option under manager Mikel Arteta.

His Arsenal career was also disrupted by a serious cruciate ligament injury that ruled him out for much of 2025 before he eventually returned to action.

Despite the setbacks, Jesus contributed to Arsenal’s Premier League title success and finished his Arsenal career with 123 appearances, 32 goals and 22 assists.

Arteta paid tribute to the Brazilian following confirmation of his departure, acknowledging the impact he had made on Arsenal’s transformation during his time at the club.

“He was a massive contributor for us to change the dynamic and the energy in and around this club,” Arteta said.

“I think when Gabi came in, he brought this energy, this belief within, this aura, that’s really helped achieve what happened next.

“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 the Catalan club’s 5-0 La Liga victory over Valencia on Sunday.

His move to Barcelona now marks a new chapter in his career as he looks to revive his form and establish himself at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.