Palmeiras club president Leila Pereira has made a heartfelt plea for Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus to return to his boyhood club, urging the Brazilian star to “come home.” The 28-year-old forward, currently sidelined by an ACL injury, has faced a challenging, injury-plagued tenure at Arsenal since his £45m transfer from Manchester City in 2022. Despite his undeniable talent, Jesus has struggled to maintain consistent form, scoring 26 goals in 96 appearances for the Gunners.
Jesus, who began his professional career at Palmeiras before moving to Manchester City in 2017 for £27m plus add-ons, remains a beloved figure at the Brazilian club. His move to Arsenal reunited him with former City assistant manager Mikel Arteta, but recent signings like Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres have intensified competition for the central striking role, fueling speculation about his future in north London.
In a recent interview with journalist Paloma Tocci, Pereira was asked to choose between Jesus and Cruzeiro striker Gabriel Barbosa. Her response was unequivocal: “Of course Gabriel Jesus, and I’ll say more. Soon you’re coming back home, Gabriel! One day you’ll return.” While Pereira confirmed that no formal talks are currently underway to facilitate Jesus’ return to Palmeiras, she made it clear that the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A side views him as a key target.
Jesus’ contract with Arsenal runs until 2027, but his omission from the club’s Champions League squad and ongoing recovery from injury have raised questions about his long-term role at the Emirates. A return to Palmeiras, where he first rose to prominence, could offer the Brazilian a chance to rediscover his form and play a starring role at a club where he is still adored.
For now, Jesus remains focused on his rehabilitation, with no immediate return to action expected. However, Pereira’s comments signal that Palmeiras is ready to welcome their former star back with open arms, setting the stage for a potential emotional homecoming in the future.