Arsenal striker hints at potential Palmeiras return: ‘I think about going back every day’

Credit: Getty Images

Gabriel Jesus has opened up about his future at Arsenal, revealing his ongoing desire to one day return to boyhood club Palmeiras while reaffirming his commitment to the Gunners for now.

The Brazilian striker, who has just over a year remaining on his Emirates Stadium contract, spoke candidly about his connection to the São Paulo-based club during the international break.

Jesus maintains Palmeiras connection

Speaking to Globo Esporte, Jesus made no secret of his emotional ties to his former club. “That bond between me and Palmeiras was never broken,” the 28-year-old explained.

“Whenever I’m in Brazil, I go there, especially when I’ve had injuries and treated them there. Obviously, I have the dream of returning one day to play, not to end my career.”

The forward was even more explicit about his long-term ambitions, adding: “I think about going back every day – my wife can back that up.”

Jesus joined Palmeiras’ academy system and helped the club avoid relegation in 2014 before becoming part of their historic success. “I came up in 2014 with Palmeiras fighting not to go down. Then we won the Brazilian Cup and the league after 22 years,” he reflected.

Arsenal commitment remains strong

Despite his Brazilian dreams, Jesus recently expressed his desire to extend his stay in north London. Earlier this year, he stated his wish to remain at Arsenal and potentially sign a new contract.

“My wish is to stay at Arsenal, and then I have a contract as well. Obviously if you ask me, I want to extend my contract, I want to stay, I want to win trophies,” Jesus said.

Mikel Arteta has also made his position clear, ruling out any January departure and praising the striker’s contribution to the squad. The Arsenal manager emphasized Jesus’s quality and the energy he brings to the team.

Palmeiras president makes feelings known

The speculation isn’t one-sided. Palmeiras president Leila Pereira has been vocal about her desire to bring Jesus back to the Allianz Parque. In October, she boldly declared: “Of course Gabriel Jesus. And I’ll say more. Soon you’re coming back home, Gabriel! One day you’ll return!”

Jesus originally left Palmeiras for Manchester City in 2016 for £27m before Arsenal secured his services for £45m in July 2022. With his current contract running until June 2027, the Gunners will be hoping to tie down their versatile forward to fresh terms while he continues to dream of an eventual homecoming to Brazil.