With the departure of Sergio Aguero, the Brazilian is our most experienced striker gong into the 2021/22 campaign.
Still only 24, this will be his sixth season for City, and he has so far clocked up 195 appearances and scored 82 goals for the Club during that time.
Jesus, who played in this summer’s Copa America, has also won 47 caps for his country, is expected to play some part of City’s opener at Tottenham on Sunday and his manager has every faith that he will shoulder the responsibility as well as he always has.
When asked if City will play with a recognised striker more often than not this season, Pep said: “I would say we play with recognised strikers.
Gabriel is an incredibly important player for us. He can play as a striker or wider.
“He is exceptional and he has a key role for us for many years and been a big part of the huge success we’ve had every season”
The boss also added that Club legend Sergio Aguero was always part of the team when he was fit, saying: “Sergio was injured and played a few games last season.
“Always when Sergio was fit he was an important part of the team.
“He was incredibly recognised by me. He was a proper striker and Gabriel is a proper striker.
“We try to control the game and score goals, with or without a striker. That’s how we play since I arrive and we continue this way.”
