David Silva

Gabriel Jesus has insisted that he will continue working harder with Manchester City as he dreams of representing Brazil at the World Cup finals in Russia next summer.

The 20-year-old joined the Citizens from Palmeiras in January, and he has since contributed 12 goals in just 20 appearances in all competitions.

Jesus has been a regular fixture in the Brazilian national side since 2016, but he is unlikely to rest on his laurels with the World Cup coming along in nine months' time. Speaking to Globoesporte, the young striker revealed his ambition of making the global tournament, whilst also admitting that he should maintain his focus at club level.

He said: "The World Cup could start tomorrow, the anxiety is enormous. I have dreamed of the World Cup since I put it in my head that I would like to be a soccer player and I will fight with loyalty to be able to be in the national squad. From the moment I leave here, I will be focused on City until I return to the national team. I'm very happy about what I've been showing everyone, but I know I have to keep working, running, showing that I should be selected."

Jesus started the season in fine fashion with six goals in his opening five outings, and he has since gone on a barren run with no goals in his last four matches. Sergio Aguero is still side-lined with a rib fracture, and this virtually assures Jesus of a regular starting spot, provided he can find his scoring touch in the coming games.

The likes of Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling have been in the goals of late, and Jesus will fancy his chances of ending his drought with the creativity of Kevin de Bruyne and David Silva behind him. Manchester City host Stoke City in their next Premier League outing on October 14.