Gabriel Jesus: Raphinha Has Developed Even Further – He's the Rising Star That Surprised Me Most

This week Gabriel Jesus gave an official interview with FC Barcelona, answering questions from fans as he reflected on his first few weeks since joining the club and discussed his teammate Ronaldinho and his goals with the team.

If you had to assign someone to score a late winner in a Champions League final, who would you choose?

"Raphinha is red-hot right now. His attacking play and his finishing are absolutely exceptional. I've known him from the national team and I've always known he has exceptional finishing ability, and I think he's developed even further now."

Tell us about your schedule during the international break.

"The club organized training sessions on our rest days, and I trained hard. I've adapted very well. I've been adjusting to the team over the past month. I already knew some of my teammates from before, and I'm gradually getting to know everyone. We have excellent players and an excellent coach, so we're on the right track."

Talk about your connection with FC Barcelona.

"It feels amazing to play for a club like this. Many fans have told me they skipped school to watch Barcelona's Champions League matches. To wear the Barcelona shirt, I have to thank fate. Now I'm here."

Which rising star on the team has surprised you the most?

"As I mentioned, Ferran Torres is the rising star who has surprised me the most. Everyone talks about Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Pedri—everyone knows them. But not many people know Ferran. Training with him every day, I see his outstanding talent, and he has a bright future ahead."

Who is the funniest player on the team?

"The funniest player on the team is Cancelo. The way he speaks and his personality are lovely. He's a great person. I have a special bond with him. I get along well with everyone on the team, but Cancelo and I have a deeper connection. We talk often, so I chose him."

Whose personality on the team has surprised you the most?

"Besides the people I already knew, it's hard to single out just one. Everyone has an excellent personality. I'm not surprised by this. I'd already heard that the atmosphere in the dressing room is a major advantage for this team."

Ronaldinho's Influence on You

"I know Ronaldinho is a great legend, and since I've been here, I've felt his influence even more strongly. Many consider him the greatest Brazilian player in Barcelona's history, and he's also my idol."

What is your favorite position on the field?

"My favorite position is being on the field. I can play in several positions, both centrally and on the wing. Right now I'm very comfortable in the number 9 role."

How would you sum up your two greatest strengths?

"My strengths are versatility and a natural determination to win."

Which match would you most like to play in?

"Every match here is a challenge. We're eager to play in the big games—important Champions League clashes and El Clásico. I really hope to play in El Clásico one day. I see it as the biggest challenge."