Why Jorginho quit Chelsea for Arsenal

Carlo Garganese

• 21 Feb 2023 13:30 GMT
• 3 min read

Jorginho has explained the reasons why he left Chelsea to join Arsenal last month.

The Italy international completed a surprise move across London during the January transfer window.

He moved for a fee in the region of £12 million (€15m) and signed a deal that runs until 2024.

READ MORE: January 2022-23 done deals

Jorginho’s contract at Stamford Bridge was due to expire at the end of the season and there was little chance of him penning a renewal.

This opened the door for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to move for Jorginho, who says his new manager played an important role in the decision.

“It’s one of the reasons, surely,” Jorginho said.

“He called me and it was all very quick, we made the deal in less than 48 hours. I had spoken to Chelsea and I knew I was no longer part of their plans. I wanted to progress in my career and the Arsenal project suits me.

“It’s a young team that plays good football and fits my characteristics. I considered every scenario and made the decision. Sometimes you must accept when you are out of a project and that things come to an end.”

Arteta believes that Jorginho’s quality and experience will help Arsenal win their first league title since 2004.

The Gunners are currently top of the Premier League, two points clear of Manchester City with a game in hand.

Jorginho played a key role in the 4-2 win over Aston Villa at the weekend as it was his last minute shot that hit the bar and bounced in off Emiliano Martinez that put Arsenal 3-2 ahead.

Jorginho career at Chelsea

Jorginho joined Chelsea from Napoli in 2018 for €64m and made 213 appearances, scoring 29 goals.

He played a pivotal role in the club winning the Champions League in 2021, and also picked up a Europa League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.

The 31-year-old has won 46 caps for his adopted nation Italy.