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Arteta’s Arsenal style attracted Jesus

Gabriel Jesus has lifted the lid on why he chose Arsenal in the summer ahead of other Premier League clubs.

The striker told ESPN Brasil that he is now playing with ‘a smile’ again after being sold on Mikel Arteta’s playing philosophy.

It’s a far cry from the role that the 25-year-old had been asked to play at Manchester City.

“At City, it was different. The striker didn’t touch the ball that much, and, when it was time to touch the ball, it was not the striker, because [Pep Guardiola] ended up putting a midfielder to come closer,” the Brazilian said.

“I accepted it for a while, but there came a moment when I said: ‘I want another thing for myself.’ I thanked him, he understood, and we moved on.

“I talked a lot with Arteta about Arsenal’s style. He knows me, I know him, I understood what he wanted from me.

“Now, I’m free on the pitch, playing football with a smile on my face and trying to do my best all the time.”