GABRIEL JESUS HAS looked a little out of sorts this season, and the Manchester City striker admits he was left “scarred” by the struggles he endured with Brazil at the 2018 World Cup.
The 21-year-old headed to Russia over the summer being tipped by many to help lead a challenge for global glory.
Brazil, though, were unable to find their spark, with talismanic skipper Neymar short on match sharpness and his supporting cast failing to deliver.
Jesus did not find the target across any of his five outings and was widely criticised in his homeland for drawing a blank.
That slump has carried over into the current domestic campaign, with just three Premier League efforts recorded so far.
Jesus does have a Champions League hat-trick to his name, from a meeting with Shakhtar Donetsk, but he told Globo TV of the impact World Cup woes have had on his form: “That elimination of ours was a blow for all of us, especially for me.
“I went to the World Cup as a key player and I ended up not scoring. It affects you.
I was scarred by that. People will always remember Gabriel who did not score in the World Cup.”
Brazil made it to the quarter-final stage in Russia before being dumped out by Belgium.
Jesus was among those forced to take in a painful period of reflection on the back of a disappointing exit.
He was also given longer than most in which to lick his wounds.
Selecao coach Tite opted to overlook him when naming post-World Cup squads, with other attacking options being favoured.
Jesus has since been returned to the fold, but international snubs also rocked his confidence.
He added: “I will not deny that I was upset because I did not go, but I will always respect the coaches’ choice, both Tite and Pep [Guardiola], when they do not put me to play.
I want to work, I always want to improve, and do only good things.”
Jesus, who ended a barren run in front of goal when bagging a brace against Everton on December 15, will be hoping to fire himself and City back into form when the reigning English champions travel to Leicester on Boxing Day.
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United have gone for high profile,statistically strong players that just don’t fit the club.Saw Josh King linked today,not a massive name but could certainly do well and given he came through their academy and has PL experience could be a good fit.
@Nic Antonio: came they the United youth set up when ole was there too
I like Neville but he is talking some amount of arse recently…
@The Irish Pain: He’s speaking nothing but sense..? Where’s your confusion?
Don’t think they need a lot in midfield or up front. 2 decent defenders would be great. But it’s very difficult to sign in January. Nice to look forward to games now.
@irishoverseas: even one strong defender would do. Think keep the players for the remainder of the season, blood some of the younger midfield/forward players this year and then let who ever comes in as manager in the summer the basis of a strong squad to at least start the rebuilding process.