Jesus: I turned down other clubs to sign for Manchester City because of Guardiola

Gabriel Jesus has highlighted the importance of Pep Guardiola in his decision to join Manchester City.

The 20-year-old has been in superb form for the Citizens since arriving at the Etihad Stadium from Palmeiras in January.

In an interview with The Players’ Tribune, Jesus admitted that he had a “few offers” on the table, but in the end Guardiola proved crucial in convincing the Brazilian to pick City.

“I had a few offers to go to other clubs, and warmer places, but for me, the decision to come to Manchester City was all about playing under Pep Guardiola,” Jesus said.

“This is my first time coming to a country that is really cold and where I don’t speak the language. It’s a challenge to be understood, and it can be lonely in that sense. However, when Mr. Guardiola called me as I was deciding where to sign, he told me that he was counting on me, and that I would be important to the future of City.

“That call was really important to me because it showed that he really cared about my future. When you have enough of these conversations, you can tell when someone is being real with you. I could tell Mr. Guardiola was being genuine – and in football, that means a lot.”

Jesus has made 35 appearances for City so far, scoring 17 goals and registering nine assists.