‘We are finished’, ‘Announce Kane’ – Man City fans reacts as Pep Guardiola emphasises importance of Gabriel Jesus

Pep Guardiola has emphasised the importance of Gabriel Jesus to his Manchester City side as Harry Kane speculation continues to dominate the Premier League build-up.

City have been heavily linked with a move for Tottenham and England captain Kane throughout the summer and manager Guardiola last week confirmed the club’s interest.

The champions are seeking a replacement striker for the prolific Sergio Aguero, who left the Etihad Stadium at the end of last season.

Yet after more than four years of mostly playing second fiddle to Aguero, it could also be the chance for Brazil international Jesus to step forward.

Speaking to the press ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League opener with Tottenham Hotspur, Guardiola was full of praise for the striker, highlighting how ‘important’ he is to the side.

‘Gabriel is an incredibly important player for us,’ said City manager Guardiola, whose side interestingly begin their title defence at Spurs on Sunday.

‘Always his mind was in the right place and he can play as a striker or wider, in more lateral positions.

‘He is an exceptional player, there is no doubt about that. He has had an incredible key role in these many years of success we’ve had, every season.’

These Guardiola’s comment on jesus Gabriel has prompt Plenty of Sky Blues to react on social media.

Fully behind him!

— Kriss Magill (@KMagill7) August 13, 2021

That’s what I like to hear, I hope he has a great season and stay here

— A-man (@Mysterio__01) August 13, 2021

We are finished. Congrats Chelsea on winning the PL

— Mark🥤🍔 (@rhsterling7) August 13, 2021

Announce Kane

— Mo ➐ (@MoSakoooo) August 13, 2021

I take him over Kane and I’m not even joking

— 🅰️ (@abzMCFC) August 13, 2021

Hahahah absolutely shambles. But people here are dumb too. Do you really think Pep would tell reporters otherwise? He even have said it in the “All or nothing” docu that he would defend anyone as long he stays, but inside the dressing room it’s different.

— Jacob, LL.M. (@Achillaes) August 13, 2021

I really wanna see him tried on the wing or just wanna see him be a bit more confident again

— ¹⁰ (@SxrgioSZN) August 13, 2021

Good to hear. In his best form he’s a defenders worst nightmare. Just needs more consistency, and to be played in his preferred position.

— Gabriel (@Doozy_45) August 13, 2021

unpopular opinion, but in a conventional system as a striker(no help defensively and bs) position, gabby would bag 15+ goals a season in the prem. He is so skillful could beat a defender in a beat.

— karthik_RB (@karthik_mcfc) August 13, 2021

With Kane still in the Spurs camp, for now at least, Jesus has the chance to stake his claim for a regular starting spot this weekend.

The 24-year-old was unavailable for the Community Shield last week – having taken a later summer break following the Copa America – but is now in contention.