Key Takeaways
- Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed 'great surprise' at Gabriel Jesus's claims of isolation before his Barcelona transfer.
- Jesus alleged he was 'put to train apart' and received 'no information' regarding his September departure.
- Arteta refuted these claims, stating he had a personal, 'gratitude'-filled discussion with the striker.
- The controversy adds to existing criticism regarding Arsenal's player communication, notably from Ian Wright concerning Gabriel Martinelli.
- Arteta cited former player Leandro Trossard's visit as proof of the club's positive post-exit relationships.
Arteta Blasts Gabriel Jesus's Explosive Exit Claims
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has publicly voiced his "very surprised" reaction to recent allegations made by former Gunners striker Gabriel Jesus concerning his departure to Barcelona. Jesus, who concluded his four-year tenure with the North London club in September, recently claimed a significant lack of communication and isolation from the squad in the lead-up to his transfer.
In a candid interview this week, Jesus stated, "out of nowhere they put me to train apart from the group," adding that "nobody told me nothing" before his move to the Spanish giants was finalized. These comments suggest a player feeling blindsided and disrespected during a pivotal career transition.
Manager's Firm Rebuttal
Responding directly to the Brazilian's criticisms, Arteta offered a starkly different account, insisting he had engaged in a personal conversation with Jesus about the transfer. "Very surprised, to be fair. Especially because with Gabi (Jesus) I had an individual talk in the dressing room,\