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Gabriel Jesus Reveals Why He Turned Down Flamengo Before Joining Barcelona
Amir Azimi
Daily News

Gabriel Jesus Reveals Why He Turned Down Flamengo Before Joining Barcelona

Gabriel Jesus Explains Flamengo Rejection

Gabriel Jesus, formerly of Arsenal, has opened up about why he declined an offer from Brazilian giants Flamengo before securing his transfer to Barcelona. The 29-year-old forward chose loyalty to his boyhood club Palmeiras over a return to South America during the summer window.

Flamengo's Attempt to Sign Jesus

Speaking with TV Bandeirantes, Jesus revealed that Flamengo tried to bring him back to Brazil after it became clear he was not in manager Mikel Arteta's plans at Arsenal. Despite a successful period at Manchester City earlier in his career, injuries hindered his progress in London. This situation attracted interest from clubs in Europe and South America.

Rooted in Palmeiras

Jesus came through the ranks at Palmeiras from 2013 to 2015, earning accolades such as the 2015 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A Best Newcomer and the 2016 Bola de Ouro. He helped Palmeiras win their first league title in over two decades and tallied 28 goals and nine assists in 83 appearances before moving to England.

He explained why he didn’t negotiate with Flamengo, saying, "They wanted to talk to me, but I politely said: I really appreciate the contact, but just as there are players from Flamengo’s youth academy that you want to come back, I’m also a product of Palmeiras’ youth system."

Commitment to Barcelona and Palmeiras

Choosing to stay in Europe, Jesus signed a three-year deal with Barcelona, valid until June 2029. Though no immediate plans exist for a return to Brazil, Jesus confirmed that if he goes back home, it will be only with Palmeiras. He stated, "I am Palmeiras, my mind is Palmeiras, 100% Palmeiras in a possible return. I don’t know when."

Strong Start at Barcelona

Since arriving at Barcelona on deadline day, Jesus has quickly found form, scoring four goals and providing one assist in eight appearances across all competitions during the 2026-27 season. Staying fit will be key as he aims to secure a regular starting spot and challenge for trophies with the Catalan club.

About the Author

Adhe has experience working with ESPN Star Sports, Fox Sports, and FIFA. His first passion was Manchester United, and he now covers Premier League and European football for GOAL. A memorable moment in his career was covering Indonesia vs Netherlands in 2013 and meeting Radja Nainggolan unexpectedly.

His expertise includes:

  • In-depth knowledge of Indonesian and European football
  • Premier League analysis
  • Wide-ranging editorial coverage

Adhe's All-Time XI (4-1-2-3):

  • Goalkeeper: Edwin van der Sar
  • Defenders: Dani Alves, Paolo Maldini, Nemanja Vidic, Roberto Carlos
  • Defensive Midfielder: Roy Keane
  • Midfielders: Xavi, Paul Scholes
  • Forwards: Lionel Messi, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo

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