Wednesday 21 December 2016 10:28, UK
Gabriel Jesus says he turned town more lucrative offers elsewhere to join "one of the best" managers in the world in Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
The Brazilian forward, 19, signed for City in the summer in a £27m move but was loaned back to Palmeiras until the end of 2016.
"There was [a lot of interest in my signature], but I don't want to name any club," he told FourFourTwo magazine.
"The decision to join City was taken by me, with my family and my agent - and it wasn't the best financial offer. We considered many things, but I really appreciate the whole City project and I'm so happy with the decision. City are a huge club in a country that loves football and has one of the best leagues.
"I can't deny that working with Guardiola helped with my decision. He's an excellent manager - one of the best in the world - and I can't describe how proud I am when he says good things about me. I'm proud that he likes my way of playing, but that's not enough for me. I need to show that he was right about me."
Despite his tender age and lack of experience in Europe, Jesus insists that he'll be able to adapt quickly to the challenges of the Premier League.
"I like to define myself as a fighter on the pitch," he said. "I like to be aggressive, trying to go forward. Since my early days I've been used to playing with older boys and strong defenders. I'm not scared of tough tacklers. I want to win - I'll fight to make sure we do."
