Arsenal’s Italian midfielder, Jorginho, has made it clear that he will not be seeking a meeting with manager Mikel Arteta to request more playing time, despite finding himself on the fringes of the team. The 31-year-old, who boasts an impressive Champions League triumph on his resume, has yet to make a Premier League start this season, primarily due to the emergence of Declan Rice following his summer arrival at the club.
Jorginho’s current situation at Arsenal has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike, given his reputation as a seasoned midfielder with a wealth of experience at the highest level of European football. The Italian international played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s Champions League-winning campaign just a few months ago, and his acquisition by Arsenal was seen as a coup at the time.
However, the landscape has shifted since then. Declan Rice’s arrival from West Ham United has added another dimension to Arsenal’s midfield, and Arteta has shown a preference for the younger Englishman in the early stages of the Premier League season. This has left Jorginho on the bench or out of the matchday squad altogether, a situation that might have frustrated many players of his caliber.
In a recent interview, Jorginho opened up about his current predicament and the mindset he has adopted regarding his playing time. He stated, “I understand that competition for places is fierce, especially at a club like Arsenal. I came here with the goal of contributing to the team’s success, and I will continue to work hard in training and give my best whenever called upon.”
He said: “I have a very good relationship with Mikel. He doesn’t need to explain anything to me.
All I need to do is stay calm, work hard every day and show him that I’m ready to play.
“For me knocking on the manager’s door has never been the right thing to do. I have always done the talking on the pitch, chattering has never been my thing.”
Jorginho’s humility and professionalism have been evident, as he has refrained from publicly expressing his dissatisfaction or seeking talks with Arteta about his playing time. This approach is a testament to his character and dedication to the team’s objectives, even in the face of personal adversity.
Despite his lack of Premier League starts, Jorginho has featured in Arsenal’s European competitions and domestic cup fixtures, demonstrating his value to the squad in a versatile role. His composure on the ball, precise passing, and ability to dictate the tempo of a match make him a valuable asset in various scenarios.
Arteta, who has been praised for his man-management skills, will likely appreciate Jorginho’s professionalism and patience in waiting for his opportunities. As the long and demanding football season unfolds, squad rotation will become crucial, and Jorginho’s experience and quality could prove pivotal in important fixtures.
While Jorginho remains committed to the Arsenal cause and determined to contribute whenever called upon, the Italian international’s presence and influence in the dressing room could also be invaluable for the younger players, providing mentorship and guidance.
Jorginho’s situation at Arsenal may not be ideal for a player of his pedigree, but his unwavering commitment and professionalism are commendable. Despite being a Champions League winner, he has chosen not to disrupt the team’s harmony by seeking a meeting with Arteta to demand more playing time. Instead, he remains focused on training hard and making a positive impact whenever his name is called, a testament to his character and dedication to Arsenal’s success.
