Arsenal outsider told he’s exempt from key Premier League demand simply because he’s ‘incredible’

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Arsenal’s squad depth has been put to the test this season as Mikel Arteta continues to combat injuries.

After Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Fulham, concerns were raised about the quality of depth within Arteta’s squad.

Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel Magalhaes missed out due to injury, seeing Thomas Partey play at right-back and Jakub Kiwior partner William Saliba.

The gap between first and second choice became clear as Kiwior was criticised for his role in Fulham’s opener, emphasising the importance of having depth of high quality.

Jamie Redknapp praises Jorginho

Also seen against Fulham was squad player Jorginho, who is utilised when some patience is required in midfield.

The Italian made his fifth start of the Premier League season at Craven Cottage, taking Partey’s place as the Ghanaian covered in defence.

While there have been rumours that Jorginho is generating transfer interest, it’s not thought that the Gunners would want to part ways with the Champions League winner in a hurry. 

The former Chelsea star has a strong influence on his teammates, with Ben White backing Jorginho to become a manager due to his leadership skills.

It’s not only at Arsenal that the 32-year-old is appreciated, being a recognised figure in the Premier League who even has his own rule book.

That’s according to Jamie Redknapp, who mentioned Jorginho when analysing Enzo Fernandez on Sky Sports’ coverage of Tottenham vs Chelsea [08/12/24].

“You have to be fit, you have to be quick,” Redknapp said when expressing the demands of the Premier League on midfielders.

“You can’t be easy to run past in this league any more. Unless you’re like a Jorginho who has such an incredible brain.”

The pundit suggested that unless players have the footballing knowledge of the Arsenal midfielder, they must adhere to the Premier League’s physical demand.

When does Jorginho’s contract expire?

Arsenal are fortunate to have Jorginho, whether that be on the pitch or behind the scenes where he’s a valued leader within the squad.

The midfielder arrived from Chelsea in January 2023 and signed a contract extension this summer, keeping the 32-year-old at the Emirates until 2025.

With no decision made on the Italian’s future yet, some Arsenal fans want to see Jorginho stay, expressing that the midfielder still has a lot to offer at the top level.

Given how the Euro 2020 winner has featured when called upon this term, Arteta might be smart to keep Jorginho around, so long as the veteran is not lured elsewhere.