Why Jorginho Left Arsenal: Playing Time, Tactics, and the Search for Happiness
Former Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has spoken candidly about his decision to move on from north London, admitting his enthusiasm for football faded toward the end of his spell at the Emirates.
Jorginho reveals why he left Arsenal, citing limited minutes, tactical demands, and a desire to rediscover joy, while offering advice for the title race.
During his final months under Mikel Arteta, the Italian found himself playing a reduced role, often coming off the bench rather than starting matches. He acknowledged that the lack of consistent involvement, combined with a strict tactical structure, made it difficult to feel valued within the squad.
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After joining from Chelsea in 2023, Jorginho featured regularly but struggled to secure a permanent starting spot. Across 79 appearances, only 27 came in the starting lineup. That situation, he explained, impacted his mindset and connection to the game.
Seeking a fresh start, he left Arsenal on a free transfer last summer and completed a move to Flamengo, aiming to rediscover his passion on the pitch.
Speaking to The Times, Jorginho emphasized the importance of feeling relevant: he wanted to play regularly and regain enjoyment, noting that staying motivated becomes difficult when not actively involved in matches.
He also reflected on Arsenal’s tactical discipline, particularly their detailed approach to set-pieces. While acknowledging its effectiveness, he likened the preparation to routine academic work—necessary, but not always inspiring. According to him, the effort pays off in results, which ultimately benefits the team.
However, he hinted that such a strong focus on structured play could affect the overall style. Jorginho suggested that concentrating too heavily on specific strategies might take away from the expressive, attacking football many associate with Arsenal.
He stressed the importance of balance, explaining that while results are crucial, the essence of the game should not be overlooked. In his view, football is constantly evolving, and teams must adapt without losing their identity.
Looking ahead, Jorginho shared thoughts on Arsenal’s ongoing push for the Premier League title. He advised his former teammates to avoid dwelling on past disappointments, warning that doing so could add unnecessary pressure.
Instead, he encouraged them to focus on their strengths and current position, believing confidence will be key as the season reaches its decisive stage. Arsenal currently lead the standings by six points ahead of Manchester City, although their rivals still have a game in hand, setting up a crucial encounter at the Etihad Stadium.
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