Gabriel Jesus, a former Arsenal attacker, has stated that he rejected down an approach from Brazilian powerhouse Flamengo during the summer transfer window because he is loyal to his boyhood club Palmeira. Instead of returning to South America, the 29-year-old attacker moved from north London to Spanish club Barcelona on a deadline day.

Speaking to TV Bandeirantes, the Brazil international said that Flamengo attempted to entice him back to his hometown once it became evident he was no longer in Mikel Arteta’s plans. Although the striker had a trophy-laden period at Manchester City earlier in his career, reoccurring fitness issues slowed his progress at the Emirates Stadium. This uncertainty caused other clubs in Europe and South America to inquire about his availability.

Boyhood roots prevent domestic switch

Having progressed through the Palmeiras academy between 2013 and 2015, the forward won the 2015 Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A Best Newcomer award alongside the Copa do Brasil before claiming the 2016 Bola de Ouro as the Verdao lifted their first league title in 22 years.

Prior to his move to England, he had 28 goals and nine assists in 83 games for Sao Paulo. Jesus explained why that history prevented him from negotiating with Flamengo: “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.'”

Since completing his deadline-day move to Spain, Jesus has quickly regained his sharpness in the final third. The 29-year-old has already contributed four goals and one assist in his first eight outings in all competitions for the 2026-27 season. Staying injury-free in the next months will be critical as he seeks to establish a regular starting spot in Barcelona’s front line and compete for big titles.