Gabriel Jesus has finally broken his silence about his long-term plans, and his words have sent a wave of emotion through both Arsenal and Palmeiras supporters. While the Brazilian forward made clear that he wants to return to Palmeiras one day, he also emphasized that now is not the time—a message aimed at cooling the growing speculation surrounding his possible January exit.
Jesus, who arrived at Arsenal in 2022 for a fee of $57 million USD, was one of Mikel Arteta’s first marquee signings in the club’s rebuild. He was expected to be the centerpiece in the attack, bringing energy, pressing intensity, and experience from his trophy-packed years at Manchester City. But a frustrating string of injuries has prevented him from consistently delivering the impact many expected.
With transfer rumors swirling—most recently linking him to Everton—Jesus has taken control of the narrative. And in doing so, he’s reminded fans exactly where his heart is.
In a recent interview, Jesus spoke openly about what lies ahead:
“My desire is to return to Palmeiras, and Palmeiras’ desire is for me to return to Palmeiras… When I feel it’s time, I’ll decide that with Arsenal.”
It was the first time he has directly addressed the idea of returning to the Brazilian club where he launched his professional career. Jesus emerged from Palmeiras’ academy as a prodigy, scoring 28 goals in 83 matches and helping rebuild the club before leaving for Manchester City in a deal worth $33 million USD.
But today, the forward’s priority is recovery—not a transfer.
Jesus is still working his way back to full fitness after another long injury absence, which has kept him off the pitch for nine months across the last two seasons. And he made it clear that some of the noise around him has been exaggerated or fabricated:
“I’ve been out for nine months and am fighting to get back, and there are journalists talking without any basis.”
So although his heart is set on a Palmeiras return eventually, right now his focus remains on proving his value in North London.
