Rivaldo: Gabriel Jesus needs time to settle but will make history at Manchester City

Rivaldo believes new signing Gabriel Jesus will make history at Manchester City, but has pleaded with fans to give him time to settle.

City finally completed the signing of Jesus on Thursday, five months after they had agreed a £27m deal with Palmeiras, and the 19-year-old could make his debut against Tottenham at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

Brazil legend Rivaldo has backed his compatriot to flourish in the Premier League in time, but has stressed supporters must be patient as he adapts to life both on and off the pitch in England.

"He's a young player, he's only 19," the 2002 World Cup winner told Sky Sports.

"Playing in England isn't easy so they need to be patient. He needs time to adapt to the cold.

"But he's a player I believe will make history in English football.

"From what I've seen in Brazil he's a great player. But please, give him time."

It's a view echoed by City's director of football, Txiki Begiristain, who believes Jesus can fulfil his potential under Pep Guardiola's stewardship.

"He has the potential to become one of the best attacking players in the game and we look forward to watching him develop further here in Manchester," he said.

"I think with Pep Guardiola as manager and the squad we already have here, Jesus has the perfect platform to reach his full potential."

Rivaldo was speaking at Betfair's Magic of Barca competition.