The distance was big enough geographically – Klopp explains why Arsenal was able to sign Jesus from Manchester City

Ahead of their showdown this weekend, Liverpool’s coach Jurgen Klopp has said that distance played a major role in why Arsenal was able to sign Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City.

Recall that Arsenal was able to sign Jesus who has been in terrific form since arriving the North London side, during the summer window. They lured the four-time Premier League title winner away from the reigning champions in a £45 million ($50m) deal.

Commenting on Jesus’ transfer to Arsenal ahead of Liverpool’s trip to the London club on Sunday, Klopp said City would not have sold him to a more direct rival.

The German tactician further described the Arsenal signee as an “exceptional” player.

He said;

“I don’t know Gabriel on a personal basis but I always liked him as a player. I know City would not have sold him to every club but to Arsenal the distance was big enough geographically and they did it.

“Exceptional player, you always saw that when he played for City. The Gabriel Jesus role at City was a nine, a winger, last year everybody said City had no No.9, he was still there but he played obviously from the wing and now he can play his role.”