Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has now revealed that Mikel Arteta was keen to secure his services for some time.
Arsenal snapped up Jorginho from Chelsea in the most recent January transfer window, shelling out £12 million for the 31-year-old’s signature.
Jorginho has since proven himself to be a useful squad member at the Emirates Stadium. He can reliably step into the team when called upon, and bring a sense of calm. He is technically excellent, an expert passer of the ball, and a natural leader. Jorginho has an important function in what is generally a very young dressing room.
Whilst Jorginho has his flaws as a player, he has to be viewed as a smart signing, considering he came to the Emirates Stadium for such a decent price. That being said, less than a year on from his arrival, his future in north London is in considerable doubt.
The former Chelsea man is thought to want to return to Italy before the end of his player career. The midfield veteran’s agent has also publicly disclosed the fact that negotiations over a new contract with Arsenal have reached a “standstill.”
Whatever Jorginho’s fate may be beyond the current campaign, he still has a crucial role to play for now. The player is well aware of this, and knows that Mikel Arteta values his presence a great deal.
What Mikel Arteta wanted Jorginho to bring to Arsenal
Appearing on The Athletic Football Podcast, Jorginho was asked why he thinks Arteta wanted to sign him. The Italy international replied, “maybe that’s a question for him! He tried to sign me a few times and we had this conversation and he was like, OK this is going to be the last time that I try.”
“I think he relies on my qualities, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well because all I want and all I try to do is help and help all my teammates and everyone at the club.”
“I help the staff bringing my experience, my mentality of wanting to win all the time and I think he brought me in hoping that I could add all this stuff.”
Jorginho’s experience and winning mentality is perhaps the most important thing he brings to the club. Previously in his career, he has won a Champions League, a Europa League title, and even been part of a EUROs triumph at international level. He knows what it takes to get his hands on major honours.
The majority of Arsenal’s young stars have precious little silverware under their belts at this stage in their careers. With the Gunners looking set to be part of a tight title race this season, it will be a major boost having someone like Jorginho, who has that winning experience, around the club. It is easy to understand why Arteta was so keen to add Jorginho to his squad, and will be looking to the player to lead by example this season.
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