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Gabriel Jesus has disclosed that he was made to train separately from his teammates during his final period at Arsenal before completing a late summer transfer to Barcelona.
The 29-year-old completed his move to Catalonia for £8.6 million ($11.6 million) to address Barcelona's shortage of options at center forward, ending his four-year tenure with the Gunners and nine-year chapter in England.
Jesus had long been anticipated to depart Arsenal following their Premier League title-winning season, with Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres seen as the preferred choices in the No. 9 position. However, the harsh manner of his departure was far less foreseeable.
"So, the truth is, I was training, I did all the pre-season with Arsenal as normal. Obviously, I knew already that probably I would not play there or get many opportunities, but nobody told me nothing," the Brazilian told SportyTV.
"Well, I am a professional. Obviously, I was training with the group. Then, from nothing, they put me to train away from the group.
"Well, I was training, I was doing my maximum to be ready if I have a chance to play at a high level again. Then, obviously, in the last week, it was very quick.
"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."
Jesus could turn out to be one of the best-value acquisitions of the summer, and he got off the mark for Barça during Wednesday's commanding 5–1 Champions League triumph over Feyenoord.
Arsenal Ambition Clear After Ruthless Summer
Jesus was not the only prominent member of Arsenal's title-winning squad to be shown the door over the summer. Leandro Trossard was offloaded to Beşiktaş despite his significant contributions last season, while the Gunners cashed in on Gabriel Martinelli by selling him to Al Hilal for £60 million ($81.5 million.)
As the old saying goes, if you're not progressing in soccer, you're falling behind.
Arsenal's departures have enabled them to strengthen their midfield and defense with marquee signings including Bruno Guimarães and Ezri Konsa, while also funding a move for Christos Tzolis as a replacement for Trossard and Martinelli.
Elite managers consistently demonstrate their ruthless side following periods of success, and Arteta has followed the example set by Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola by boldly moving on from several former key players in the relentless pursuit of trophies.
A strong start to the campaign will only validate their summer activity. Arsenal have claimed the Community Shield, won all three of their Premier League fixtures, and defeated Napoli in their Champions League league phase opener on Wednesday.