Arsenal decision is major blow to Gabriel Jesus after transfer window | Football | Sport

Yet, Zinchenko managed only 10 outings for the faltering Premier League outfit and his loan spell was eventually terminated by mutual agreement. His exit – four years after joining the Gunners in a £30million switch from Manchester City – would have meant a painful farewell, particularly for Jesus. The Brazilian had spent five years alongside Zinchenko at the Etihad Stadium before being reunited with him in north London during the same transfer window.

Upon joining the club, Jesus disclosed that the duo had developed a strong bond under Pep Guardiola. When questioned about his closest friend at Arsenal, he confessed it was Zinchenko. “I could say the Brazilians but I think Zinchenko because we’ve played together for years and we’ve got to know each other really well,” Jesus stated. “He’s just a great guy to be around, and he’s a great player. He gives us something different.”

Zinchenko’s exit would have also affected Declan Rice, given the England midfielder acknowledged that he had developed a tight bond with the 29-year-old shortly after his £105m transfer from West Ham. Rice said at the time: “To be fair, I’ve formed a lot of really good relationships here. There’s a lot of different cultures and I’m really close with Gabriel Magalhaes – we get on so, so well. Alex Zinchenko, Gabriel Jesus and Aaron Ramsdale too.

“I get on with everyone, I talk to everyone and it’s great to have a good relationship with so many different people in the team. I look around and I think these are the people that I want to win stuff with and have a long career with. They’ve taught me so much. Take me and Gabriel for example. We’re both completely different personalities from completely different backgrounds and we play football in a different way too, but we learn so much from each other and we’ve formed a really good friendship.”

Following news of his departure, Zinchenko penned a farewell message to Arsenal, which read: “To the Gunners. I will never forget the way you welcomed me. Still remember the goosebumps I got at the first game after hearing your “Always beliiiiiieeeve”.

“I couldn’t even dream about it. From the deepest place in my heart I would like to say a massive thank you for everything that you have done for me and my family. To the coaching staff, thank you for the opportunity to be a small part of this amazing club. To the players, thank you for the priceless experience, fantastic memories and becoming friends for life.

“To all the staff, thank you for your help and for looking after me and my family. And of course to the fans, for love, support and criticism which we as a players need to accept and work even harder. I just want to wish you all the best and hope you achieve everything what ever you wish. Once a Gunner always a Gunner. Thank you.”