Brazilian Striker Gabriel Jesus Says Arsenal’s ‘Big Club’ Status Convinced Him to Join the Club

• Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus has cited Arsenal's 'big club' status as a major factor in his switch from Manchester City to the Gunners
• The Brazilian forward won four English Premier League titles among eight major honours during his time with Man City after joining them in January 2017
• Jesus is expected to spearhead the attack of Mikel Arteta's charges as the Gunners seek to challenge on all fronts in the upcoming season

Gabriel Jesus has shed light on the rationale behind his move to north London outfit Arsenal.

The 25-year-old completed a long-term switch from Manchester City to Arsenal for a reported fee of £45 million.

Jesus spent five successful years with the Citizens, where he won four Premier League titles and four domestic cups.

Following his move to the Gunners, critics have questioned his ambition due to the lack of Champions League football at the Emirates Stadium and the club's inability to compete for major laurels.

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But the Brazilian forward disclosed the reason why he made the move to join Arsenal, citing Thierry Henry as one of his role models during his formative years.

“I followed Arsenal when I was young because of [Thierry] Henry,” Jesus added. “Obviously I didn’t follow too many European teams but when I saw some of the players that played here, I was like “wow, this club is big.” He told the club's official website.

He continued: "When I played against Arsenal I was looking at the Emirates and it was a very good stadium, so I’m very excited to play here."

“I’m so happy to sign for this big club. From day one when I knew I could come to play for Arsenal, I was happy. I know the staff, I know some players, the Brazilian ones."

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"I know there are a lot of top players. They are young and I’m still young as well, so I am so happy to be here to help. I come to help, to learn as well and to try to do my best.”

Arsenal complete the signing of Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Arsenal have completed the signing of Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus for a fee of around £45 million ($54 million), the London club announced on Monday.

Jesus, who scored 95 goals in 236 appearances for City, has signed a "long-term contract" with Arsenal after deciding to leave the Premier League champions in search of more regular first-team action.

The Brazil international is reunited with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who was Pep Guardiola's assistant at City before he took charge at the Emirates Stadium.