Jesus proud, even after Brazil’s exit

GABRIEL Jesus is proud of Brazil’s effort at the World Cup as he rests ahead of the Premier League season.

The City striker was part of the side beaten by Belgium in the quarterfinals, bringing a premature end for one of the tournament favourites.

Jesus, who failed to score in the five games they played, expressed his frustration. But as he starts some downtime before linking back up with Pep Guardiola’s group, the 21-year-old posted an uplifting message on his Instagram with a picture of the Brazil squad.

“An incredible job, a lot of dedication and joy! A family that formed over those two years, but looking like we were there much longer together,” it read. “Always with great union, seriousness, honesty and WORK!

“But as always, nothing in this life is easy! Imagine how crazy it would be if everything were perfect and if all we wanted would happen. We would have the ideal world. And, unfortunately, it does not exist!

“Although the result was not the way we would like it or what we are accustomed to as Brazilians, I put a lot of will and heart always!

“Defeat hurts a lot. But the sport teaches you that this same defeat is for you to learn lessons, to mature and to always improve. And that’s what I’ll do. Football does not give you time to be too happy or sad for long, but it teaches you that just as defeat comes the victory will also come!”

Jesus is expected to return to Manchester at the end of the month ahead of the Community Shield game with Chelsea at Wembley on August 5.