‘Leader’ Jorginho has special place in Gunners family
JORGINHO has called Arsenal’s title challenge a “beautiful journey” after signing a short-term contract extension with the Premier League leaders.
The Italy midfielder, 32, joined from Chelsea for £12million in January 2023 on an 18-month deal.
And the Champions League winner’s influence on and off the pitch has convinced the Gunners to take up the option of another season.
Jorginho, who has made 35 Arsenal appearances this term, said: “I’m really, really happy to stay, because it’s a privilege to be a part of this family.
“The way I felt involved and how I felt in a good place. It’s not always like that, so when you feel something like this, it’s important.”
Arsenal reached the Champions League quarter-finals this season, their first run to that stage since 2010, before losing to Bayern Munich.
The Gunners lead Manchester City by a single point going into their last two matches of the Premier League season, although the defending champions have a game in hand.
Brazilian-born Jorginho said: “We are enjoying it [this season] because it’s a beautiful journey.
“It’s a special moment, a special thing we’ve been doing, and we need to enjoy the moment, every single day.
“To be where we are, we worked hard.We did so much and we need to be proud of what we’ve been doing. We need to trust what we’re doing and believe it.”
The former Verona and Napoli star, who moved to Chelsea in 2018, added: “I try to give everything I can of myself, to everyone around. Sometimes that can be a cuddle, sometimes it can be words, sometimes show them something.
“So I just try to help as much as I can. I feel that everyone here can count on me. I will always be there for them.” Manager Mikel Arteta, left, added: “We’re delighted that Jorgi has signed a new contract. Jorgi is such an important part of our team, a role model with great leadership skills and a unique playing style which makes everybody better around him.
“We’re very pleased that Jorgi and his family have committed with us and we’re all excited to continue this journey together.”
Jorginho was named UEFA Men’s Player of the Year in 2021 after winning the Champions League with Chelsea and Euro 2021 with Italy. He also finished third in the Ballon d’Or.
On his future hopes for Arsenal, he added: “Win as much as I can, enjoy the moment because that’s really important. If you are somewhere where you are not happy, then it’s difficult.”