Gabriel Jesus: The Savior?

(By Andre Borges/Agência Brasília under CC BY 2.0)

Brazil has always had a knack for producing talented footballers. Such players currently include the likes of Diego Costa, Philippe Coutinho, and Roberto Firmino, who are all enjoying successful careers and have become fan favorites at their respective clubs. We have come to know them as graceful on the ball, beautiful in their shooting, and creative in their passes. Perhaps most of all, Brazilians have become known for possessing a passion for the game that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Not many, however, can boast pulling off such an impactful debut- like the one Gabriel Jesus had in his first game with Manchester City. The level of performance he was at in just his first game with the club linking seamlessly with his teammates was a sample of what lies ahead for the talented forward. Brought to the Etihad for a significant sum of 27 million pounds from Brazilian club Palmeiras, Jesus was a live wire right off the bat after being substituted on for Raheem Sterling. He was captivating as he fizzed a pass into the box for a dangerous opportunity, a looping header that almost found the back of the net, and ultimately, a well-crafted goal that he finished- only to be called back offsides. What would have been the dream start for him ended up in a bitter 2-2 draw against rivals Tottenham Hotspur. However, already tipped by legend Roberto Carlos and the Brazilian Ronaldo to rise to stardom at City, Jesus will have many better days to come than the draw suffered in his debut.

While manager Pep Guardiola expressed that Jesus will need time to adjust to the league, there is no doubt he is a big part of Pep’s plans in rebuilding City into another title-challenging squad. With young stars like Sane and Ihenacho already regularly featuring in the side, Gabriel Jesus makes a fine attacking addition to experienced players like Aguero. City fans won’t immediately see him sliding into the starting XI anytime soon, but expect big things from him whenever he steps on the pitch.

You don’t see players of his caliber often- the kind that can make a real influence where ever he plays, whenever he plays.  In fact, I’ll make a wild prediction- in two seasons, Manchester city striker Gabriel Jesus will win PFA Player of the Year at age 21, in addition to leading Manchester City to the title.

Think I’m crazy? Just remember, you heard it here first.

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Author: Kevin