Handbrake Off: The Athletic FC's Arsenal show Gabriel Jesus interview: Arteta vs Guardiola, Arsenal's title race & more
Mar 21, 2026
Gabriel Jesus, Brazilian forward for Arsenal and Brazil known for his versatility and previous success at Manchester City. He discusses Arteta’s role in signing him and the club’s evolving winning mentality. He compares Arteta and Guardiola, reveals dressing-room chemistry and leadership, and talks set-piece work, coping with pressure and his World Cup ambitions.
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Jesus Expected Immediate Title Contention
- Jesus expected Arsenal to contend immediately and told teammates in preseason they could win the league.
- He describes how early-season form drops cost them his first season, but the squad grew to believe title contention was real.
Reframing Pressure After Repeated Near Misses
- Past near-misses create recurring negative memories, so Arsenal work to reframe mentality and focus 'game by game' rather than fear of losing what they never had.
- Jesus highlights mental reset conversations and treating pressure as process rather than possession.
Arsenal Leadership Is Shared, Not Solely Captain-Led
- Leadership at Arsenal is collective: Jesus names Bukayo, Declan, himself, Martin, David, Jaya and Merino as voices, not relying on a single skipper.
- He defends Martin Ødegaard as a captain who leads by example despite external criticism.