New Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has revealed that a key reason for him joining Arsenal was manager Mikel Arteta. The midfielder made the switch from Chelsea on deadline day for a fee of £12 million.
The signing was made quickly when Arsenal’s bid for Moises Caicedo was repeatedly rejected. Chelsea themselves have sold Jorginho to make space for record signing Enzo Fernandez.
Arsenal last won the Premier League in 2004 and has been in red-hot form this season. The signing of Jorginho is to add strength and squad depth to their Premier League title pursuit.
In his first interview with the club’s official website, Jorginho said regarding Mikel, “He was a big influence because I know that he tried a few times to get me before and it didn’t happen due to other reasons, not because of my wishes.”
So of course, he had a big influence and says “I’m very excited about this new challenge, and I just can’t wait to be on the pitch, to be honest! Everything has happened so fast. I was a bit surprised, but I took the opportunity of this amazing challenge. It’s an important shirt. It’s an amazing club, a big one, and I’m really excited and happy to be here.”
Mikel Arteta also spoke about the new signing, “Jorginho is a midfield player with intelligence, deep leadership skills, and a huge amount of Premier League and international experience, the manager added. Jorginho has won in his career, but he still has the hunger and huge willingness to contribute here. We are so pleased to sign Jorginho and welcome him and his family to the club.”
The 31-year-old midfielder had an incredible time with Chelsea, winning the Champions League there. He also played a pivotal part in Italy’s Euro victory.
In 2021, he came 3 rd in the Ballon d’Or list and won UEFA player of the year. He will now hope to win the Premier League with Arsenal, who sit at the top of the league.
