Barcelona boss questions Arsenal transfer decision: ‘I was surprised’ | Football

Hansi Flick says he was ‘a little surprised’ Barcelona were given the chance to sign Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal.

Jesus was in the stands for Barcelona’s 5-2 win over Rayo Vallecano on Monday ahead of his £8.6m move to the Nou Camp.

The Brazilian forward quickly approved a move to the La Liga champions after being banished by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal fans had high hopes for Jesus following his £45m move from Manchester City given he won four Premier League titles at the Etihad Stadium.

But the 29-year-old has underwhelmed at the Emirates Stadium, scoring 32 goals in 123 appearances and struggling with various injury issues.

Arsenal put Jesus up for sale after leaving him out of Arsenal’s first two games of the season, the Community Shield win over Manchester City and the Premier League opener against Coventry City.

Jesus will become Barcelona’s third signing from a Premier League club this summer following the arrivals of Rodri from Man City and Anthony Gordon from Newcastle.

‘I was a little surprised we had the opportunity to get him,’ Flick said after Barcelona’s emphatic win over Rayo Vallecano.

‘I really love him. I like his style to play football, it fits with our style. I think he can help us a lot in the games.

‘For us, he can be an important [player], so thanks to [sporting director] Deco because again he made an excellent job.’

Asked whether he was expecting any more signings to arrive at Barcelona before the transfer deadline, Flick added: ‘I don’t think so, but we will see.’

Jesus, meanwhile, gave a brief response to his move to Barcelona ahead of his official unveiling, telling reporters: ‘I’m very happy. I hope we win many titles.’

Arsenal sanctioned Jesus’ departure after agreeing a deal to sell Gabriel Martinelli to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.

Discussing Arsenal’s deadline-day plans after the 1-0 win over Aston Villa on Monday, Arteta said: ‘As I said, we’re trying to improve the squad – until tomorrow night we’re going to try to do that.

‘I’ve been disconnected from the world for 24 hours because I think my energy probably has to be on the match, but I will get back on it now.’

Arsenal return to Premier League action against Chelsea at the weekend while Barcelona travel to Valencia.

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