Why Gabriel Jesus and Raheem Sterling missed Manchester City trophy parade

Manchester City’s bleary-eyed players celebrated clinching the Premier League title in front of thousands of their fans with an open-top bus parade on Monday evening, but two men central to their success this season were notable absentees.

Raheem Sterling’s introduction as a second half substitute on Sunday helped rescue Pep Guardiola’s side against Aston Villa, as the champions came from 2-0 down to secure the victory which guaranteed a fourth title in fives seasons.

The England winger is set to enter the final year of his contract and, having lost his regular starting position, has been linked with a move this summer with Barcelona, Arsenal and Tottenham touted as potential destinations.

Gabriel Jesus, meanwhile, played an increasingly influential role during the closing weeks of the campaign, but the 25-year-old is minded to leave City this summer as a direct consequence of Erling Haaland’s impending arrival.

Arsenal are said to be in pole position to sign the Brazil international striker, but Tottenham, who secured Champions League qualification on Sunday with a 5-0 win over Norwich, are reported to have entered the race to sign the former Palmeiras player.

Despite their importance to the City cause, however, both were unable to attend Monday’s coronation, according to The Sun, for ‘unavoidable family reasons’.

Speaking after Sunday’s triumph, meanwhile, Jesus spoke to media in Brazil, admitted he faced an uncertain future and will take time over the next few weeks, before coming to a final decision on where he will play his football next season.

‘About my future, it’s still uncertain,’ Jesus told ESPN Brazil.

‘I have a contract with City and I have already expressed my desire to the City people and to my agent. I have in my head very clear what I want.

‘Today, I want to celebrate a lot with City. It’s obvious that I’m very happy here. Tomorrow, if everything goes well for me, my wife and our family, Helena [his daughter] will come to the world.

‘So, I have to take advantage of this moment. Then, think about the team, smile at the team again. And, on vacation, I decide about my future.’

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