Newly signed Barcelona forward Gabriel Jesus has revealed he accepted a substantial pay cut to make his dream move to the Catalan giants a reality.
Gabriel Jesus Opens Up on Pay Cut: ‘This Is a Dream Come True’
The Brazilian international completed his shock transfer from Arsenal this week, with the Blaugrana securing his services for a cut-rate fee believed to be in the region of €10 million, potentially rising to €14 million with performance-related bonuses.
Jesus, who was earning approximately €300,000 per week at the Emirates Stadium, admitted the financial sacrifice was a necessary step to join the club he has always admired.
“I did take a significant pay cut, but for me, this is a dream,” the 29-year-old forward stated in his first public appearance since completing the move.
“It wasn’t just me; Barça made a huge effort to make this signing happen.”
The former Arsenal star’s new wages remain undisclosed, but reports suggest they align with Barcelona’s current salary structure.
For context, Ferran Torres, who occupies a similar role at the club, reportedly earns around €200,000 per week.
Jesus himself previously earned a little over €100,000 weekly during his time at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite lingering worries about his injury history, particularly regarding muscular and knee problems that saw him fall down the pecking order in London, Jesus projected unwavering confidence about his physical condition.
“I’m doing very well – physically, I’m in great shape. My knee is no longer an issue,” he assured.
“The situation regarding the injury is clear. The last two years have been very difficult; the knee injury kept me out for almost a year.”
The forward insisted he has fully recovered and is ready to justify Barcelona’s faith in him.
“I recovered really well and returned to playing at a high level with Arsenal. My knee and my body are in good shape and ready to give my best,” Jesus added.
The Catalans have taken something of a gamble on the injury-plagued striker, but Jesus appears determined to prove his worth and repay the club’s belief in him.
