Four years ago, Gabriel Jesus was painting the streets of Sao Paulo in preparation for the world cup in his homeland. The then 17 year old had not even made his club debut when his compatriots were massacred 7-1 by Germany in the Semifinals.
But the Manchester City forward will be going to Russia as his country’s main striker and already has a Premier League winners’ medal. The remarkable transformation is not yet complete as the 21 year old is still developing.
Jesus has scored 10 goals in 17 appearances for The Selecao. He is part of a young exciting attacking trident that also includes Neymar and Coutinho and carry the hopes of winning the 6th world cup title.
Just two years ago, the Brazilian made his senior debut for Palmeiras against Clube Atlético Bragantino and now he’s impressing week in-week out under Pep Guardiola at the Etihad.
The young striker scored the only goal in the 1-0 win over Germany in March and is hungry for more success with the national team.
Despite his spectacular rise to fame, Jesus hasn’t forgotten where he grew up, reminiscing about his neighbourhood Jardim Peri – the place where he grew up as a child.
Back in December, Jesus said the following about Jardim Peri: “I’m very connected to my neighborhood. Every time I have a day off, I go there, I’m at home. If I could,
“I would take the entire Peri Garden neighborhood to form a Jardim Peri in Manchester. It’s a place where I have peace, where I like to be.”
The fact that Jesus has become one of the most exciting players in world football, just two years after making his senior debut, speaks volumes about his ability and drive to become the best.