Ian Wright now highlights one major weakness in £110k-a-week Arsenal star’s game

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Legendary former striker Ian Wright has now identified a weakness in Arsenal midfielder Jorginho.

Jorginho has proved to be a useful squad player for Arsenal since his £12 million January arrival from Chelsea.

On the pitch, the 31-year-old has been able to step in and add solidity and security on the ball to the Gunners’ midfield united. In light of Thomas Partey’s recurrent fitness concerns, Jorginho has enjoyed plenty of game time recently. So far this season, the £110,000-a-week veteran has made twelve appearances across all competitions, including six starts.

Jorginho is also an influential figure in the dressing room. He has taken Fabio Vieira under his wing, and is a great example of professionalism for the younger Arsenal players. Mikel Arteta will have taken note of Jorginho’s natural leadership skills.

However, there are those who have concerns about Jorginho. Ian Wright believes he has limitations as a player which opponents will seek to target.

Arsenal must protect Jorginho

Discussing Jorginho with Premier League Productions (04/11/23, 17:25), Wright expressed his worry about how the 48-cap Italy international can cope with being heavily pressed. The former Arsenal striker said, “I think he is somebody that if he has got a lot of bodies around him and there is a lot of pressure on him, then he does find it very difficult to get into his game.”

Opponents will seek to exploit Jorginho’s lack of pace and mobility. Arteta must be wary of this and make tactical tweaks to guard against it. Having the pace and power of Declan Rice nearby in the middle of the park should help Jorginho. The former West Ham man has the awareness and stamina to protect and cover for Jorginho should he ever get crowded out.

Jorginho is not the long-term future of the Arsenal midfield, given his age. However, he will likely continue to play a key role for the Gunners throughout this campaign. It is vital, therefore, that steps are taken to ensure that he does not become a liability.