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Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has opened up on the decision that saw him left out of the Brazil squad for the September internationals.
THE LOWDOWN: SURPRISE SNUB
Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has finally reacted to missing out on Tite’s Brazil squad for the September internationals.
Despite a fast start to life with the Gunners, where he has scored four goals alongside three assists, cementing his role as a central striker – Jesus was overlooked for the Selecao’s roster for their upcoming friendlies with Ghana and Tunisia.
Given his new-found form for Arsenal, many expected him to be called up without a doubt and his exclusion was one of the big surprises, though there was no room for the other Gabriels in the Gunners’ squad as well.
THE LATEST: RESPECTED DECISION
Speaking to ESPN via Sport Witness after Arsenal’s 3-0 win at Brentford on Sunday Jesus admitted he was in contact with Tite after he was dropped from the Brazil squad.
“There was [contact], post-call, yes,” he said.
“I respect the coach’s decision a lot, I respect Tite, the entire staff, the entire commission. As I said, I’m Brazilian, I’ll always root for the team. And I also respect the other players who have a lot of quality. I’ll keep doing my best to have the opportunity again.
“What’s in my control is my performance. I’ll always try to do my best, finish the plays. Today I had some chances that I could also improve a little more, I know. I’ve been training, trying to do my best.”
THE VERDICT: NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT
In a recent explanation, Tite explained the likely reason behind Jesus’ omission, saying “Gabriel Jesus, specifically, is having a great time and in contention,” he said.
“Absolutely, yes. These call-ups serve as opportunities for others. As well as others in this same context.
Taking the above in mind, it’s safe to say Jesus will still be called up but his exclusion was only to give other attackers a chance to be tested. In the event that he ultimately gets left out of the World Cup squad, it would be a big blow for the player but surely, that will give him extra rest and keep him fresh for the second half of the season.
