Gabriel Jesus shines in first appearance for Arsenal

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By Martin Graham | 9th Jul 2022

Gabriel Jesus made a promising start to his new colours after a positive display in a friendly against Nurnberg. The new Arsenal man scored a brace from the bench in a comfortable 5-3 victory against their hosts.

The Brazilian came from the bench when Arsenal were trailing 2-0 and he quickly established his presence and got on the scoresheet in a minute. He also followed up the first with a quick-fire second to restore parity. His movements in the box also forced his opponents to score two own goals.

The striker attributes his fast start to fans’ love and support

After the game, he was asked to share the secret behind his quick settlement into the club.

The striker stated that the fans warm welcome and his enthusiasm at joining such a huge club have been key factors.

“I’m so, so proud. I’m proud to be here at this big club,” he said.

“I’ve completed four or five days together with the lads, and I just want to say thank you to everyone at Arsenal because they make me feel at home. Everyone is talking, coming to me and saying ‘good luck, we are happy to have you here’, and I’m happy to be here as well. That makes me feel at home.”

The friendly was Jesus’ first game at the club, and to the delight of Arsenal fans, the Brazilian believes that he will improve as he continues to gain fitness and sharpness. He also hopes to quickly gel with his new teammates whom he praised for their desire in the friendly.

“I’m feeling good,” he said about his fitness. “Sometimes it’s hard because I had more than 20 days without running, without doing anything, just trying to get some sleep with my new baby and my girlfriend!

“Today was a difficult first half. We have to understand a little bit because we had young players, and they are a strong team. They played long ball, so it was difficult for us. But at the end we came back, and because everyone is together like a team, we did it”, added the 25 year old.

The team is looking toward to playing for pre -season games, as they look to build momentum for the new Premier League season. Jesus will hope for more game time as he seeks to quickly create a connection with his new teammates and adapt to their playing style.

“I’ve just come to be part of this amazing club, amazing team, and then to win together,” he added. “I believe a lot in the project at this club. I can’t wait to play, at our amazing stadium.”