‘I expect big things’ - Ronaldinho praises Gabriel Jesus and makes bold Arsenal prediction

Gabriel Jesus joined Arsenal in a £45 million deal last month and has scored two goals in the opening two fixtures this season, leading Jesus to receive plenty of praise from fans and pundits.

Ronaldinho is one that has backed Jesus, suggesting he could become one of the best players in the world while in North London.

Speaking to the Mirror, the former Ballon d’Or winner said: “When Gabriel joined Manchester City I said he would go on to be one of the best players in the world. When he was given a chance, he showed what he was capable of - but at Manchester City he was never shown the love a player of his quality deserves.

“At Arsenal he has been given the chance to be the focal point, he has been shown the love by the coach and the fans, and already he is repaying that. This season I expect big things from him - he will repay the love shown in him by showing he is not just one of the best players in the Premier League but also in Europe.”

Jesus joined Man City from Palmeiras in 2017 as an exciting young prospect, however his first team opportunities were limited and would often be used from the bench - however still managed to score 58 league goals during his time with the club.

The 25-year-old has now joined Arsenal as their first choice striker and many are expecting him to have a hugely successful season now that he is to be used as the main man up top.

Jesus’ expected goal tally is exactly what Arsenal needed this season after narrowly missing out on a Champions League spot last time out.

The Gunners have taken maximum points from their opening matches and have looked brilliant throughout, with questions being raised as to how much higher than a top four spot they could aim for.

Ronaldinho has made his predictions for the London club’s season and is feeling very positive about Jesus’ and Mikel Arteta’s chances.

The 42-year-old said: “Arsenal will get back into the top four this season with the signings they have made - maybe they can even achieve more and challenge for the title.

“Manchester City look very strong and they will be favourites - but in football anything is possible.”

Arsenal are set to travel to the south coast on Saturday as they face Bournemouth in the late kick-off.