FC Barcelona forward Gabriel Jesus has faced Real Madrid before in his career, but never wearing the famous blaugrana.
“It is truly a dream to play in this clásico for the first time. I have never hidden my desire to one day wear the Barcelona jersey. I said as much many years ago in several interviews, and that goal also includes playing in the clásico. I have taken part in many matches of this magnitude throughout my life—such as Palmeiras versus Corinthians, and many others in England—and Barcelona versus Real Madrid is, without a doubt, among the most important in the world,” he told CazeTV.
Jesus has scored three goals against Madrid, all while playing with Manchester City FC, in the UEFA Champions League.
“These were memorable Champions League knockout ties—including a goal at the Bernabéu—in which we had the chance to qualify on both occasions,” he said.
The Brazilian scored that goal in the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, Madrid’s home, on February 26, 2020. Trailing 1-0 after an Isco goal, Jesus scored the equalizer in a game City would end up winning 2-1. They also won the return leg 2-1, with Jesus scoring once again.
Jesus also scored a goal against Madrid in April 2022, in a wild 4-3 win at the Etihad Stadium.
He never scored against them while an Arsenal FC player, because he never featured against them during his stint with the Gunners.
Jesus has hit the ground running since joining Barcelona. He has scored four goals since his debut.