Football
Jonathan Smith, Manchester City correspondent 7y

Gabriel Jesus can become 'one of the greatest in Brazilian history' - Zico

Brazil legend Zico has told ESPN FC that he was not surprised by the incredible impact that Gabriel Jesus has made in the Premier League.

The Manchester City striker has been an instant success following his January move from Palmeiras -- scoring seven goals in 11 appearances.

Gabriel, 20, has also become a key figure for the Brazil national team ahead of next season's World Cup and Zico says he has the potential to become one of the best players in the world.

"I was not surprised because I've taken the word 'surprise' from my football dictionary. Nowadays, we see everything that happens all around the world, so you can no longer be surprised," Zico told ESPN FC.

"He's a boy that was Brazilian champion playing for one of Brazil's biggest teams and became the Brazilian national team's No. 9 at 19.

"I guess everybody could see that he wasn't going to feel the difference of moving to England and playing for City, which is a spectacular team.

"If he continues to grow, he has everything to achieve that. He demonstrates everyday that he's a great professional, with fantastic quality.

"Gabriel is a player who pursues success with hard work and competence. He has everything to become one of the greatest in Brazilian football history."

Gabriel was a target for some of the biggest clubs in Europe but chose City because of the opportunity to work with coach Pep Guardiola.

Zico says that Guardiola, along with Brazil national team boss Tite, can help him get even better.

"Guardiola is as good as it gets," he added. "Gabriel now is working with the world's two best coaches: Guardiola at City and Tite at Brazil.

"Also, before moving to City, he was already being developed by Cuca at Palmeiras, and Cuca is one of the best coaches in Brazil.

"And now he has the opportunity to work with Pep! This boy has to thank God every day for that. He deserves it, he worked to deserve it, and God is giving that to him."

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