Manchester City star Gabriel Jesus reveals Brazil legend Ronaldo gives him career advice
Jesus says he is ‘very proud’ that Real Madrid legend said the youngster reminds him of himself
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GABRIEL JESUS has revealed that he has a hotline to Brazil and Real Madrid legend Ronaldo.
The 20-year-old, set to spearhead Manchester City's title charge this season, said: “If I ever have any doubts or questions, I can ask.”
In an interview with the Daily Mail, Jesus revealed he was honoured that Ronaldo had said the youngster reminded him of himself.
The former Real Madrid, Barcelona, Inter Milan and AC Milan star said of the 20-year-old: “When I see him, I am reminded of my own past.”
Ronaldo, known as ‘The Phenomenon’ in Brazil, is considered one of the greatest centre forward's in the nation's illustrious footballing history.
And since helping transform Brazil's stuttering World Cup qualifying bid under new boss Tite, Jesus has made the famous yellow No.9 shirt his own.
“It means an awful lot that he said that,” said Jesus of Ronaldo's praise. “I’m very honoured.
“We speak a lot and I know now that, if I ever have any doubts or questions, I can ask. I’m very proud about that. He was the best player I ever saw.”
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Jesus and his team-mates travel to Premier League newboys Brighton for their season-opener at tea-time on Saturday.
And the City players know that they must improve on their third-place finish last season - especially as boss Pep Guardiola has spent more than £200million on new players this summer.
“Yeah the pressure will be there, but all the big teams have to fight for silverware, not just us.
“I know that nowadays City is a club that has to win trophies. We didn’t manage it last season, so this season everyone has to be focused on putting that right.”
Jesus joined City from Sau Paulo club Palmeiras for £27m last January but suffered a broken foot in his fifth match.
The youngster still made his mark, netting seven goals in 12 hours of football and earning the nickname 'the King' among City fans.
“I’m really happy to hear the nice things,” he says.
“Now it's up to me to respond on the field, to train well every day and give myself the best possible preparation to live up to these expectations.”
A close friend of Neymar, Jesus revealed that the PSG star had tried to get him to join Barcelona before he signed for City.
“I’m not sure if one day I could persuade him to come to England. But if he decides to come, I'll do my best to make sure it's to City,” joked Jesus.
Jesus also struck the right notes when asked about his rivalry with City's Argentinian striker Sergio Aguero, showing a nice mix of respect and self-confidence.
“Sergio Aguero is a high-quality player,” he said. “I’m a big fan of his, both of his football and his humility. But ultimately it's the manager's decision.
“If he wants us to play together we can, as we have already shown. But if he wants me to play up front alone, it’s his decision.”
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