FOOTBALL
By Piyush Wankhede
Posted on April 21, 2026 9:00 pm | Updated on April 21, 2026 1:18 pm
Arsenal Logo
ARSENAL
Arsenal is one of England’s most prestigious football clubs, competing in the Premier League and European competitions like the UEFA Champions League. Known for its attacking style, rich history, and passionate fanbase, Arsenal has won numerous league titles and domestic… Read More about ARSENAL
Jorginho talks about his time at Arsenal under Mikel Arteta. In this case, he reveals how he lost the joy to play football, which also forced him to make a move elsewhere.
Jorginho admits loss of joy under Arteta
As per reports, former Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has talked about his decision of leaving the Gunners. In this case, revealing that he lost the joy to play football in his last few months under Arteta. The Italian was seen as a support player in the squad. As a result, his game time was limited and uncertain. Also, Arteta’s rigid tactical system made him feel less important to the squad. Therefore, leaving the club to rediscover happiness on the pitch somewhere else.
READ MORE: Arsenal latest: Fabregas twist as Arteta faces Odegaard secret
After joining from Chelsea in 2023, at first his role was huge. He was involved tactically in almost every game. The Gunners valued him and what he brings to the team. However, over time his value got decreased. The Gunners brought in top players that would add depth and quality to the squad. But Jorginho saw this in a sense of betrayal. He made 79 appearances for the club, out of which he started in only 27 games.
New signings and the management by the club between him and others made him feel less important. As a result, to get that joy of playing football back, he left Arsenal to join Flamengo on a free transfer. Jorginho says, “I want to feel alive and important for the team…when a player is not on the pitch, it’s hard to keep motivated. I felt I needed to go somewhere where I was going to play with joy.”
Despite his frustration, Jorginho did not dismiss Arteta’s effective plans. He says, Arsenal are the most disciplined team in the Premier League. This has led them to be title contenders this season. A lot of that can be credited to Arteta’s plans and tactical system.
Debate between tactics and player freedom
The long going debate between tactics and player freedom surfaces yet again. This comes as a result of Jorginho’s comments dividing people on the basis of their opinion. There are two angles to this. Firstly, some people argue that football relies more on how freely each player expresses himself on the pitch. They believe this game’s essence lies in this, and without it the game would be like some non playing character controlled by a remote controller.
READ NEXT: Sporting star slams Arsenal: “boring, zero rhythm” after UCL clash
Secondly, some argue that the modern game requires a defined approach. A play full of randomness does not guarantee success for the club. A system of play that requires the players to play a certain way is the need of the day. This allows the players to be on the same page and strive for success together. In today’s game, every player is skilled so the margin of error becomes zero. As a result, these tactical planning allows the players to control the game well.
READ MORE: Arsenal blow: ‘No chance’ claim rocks Kvaratskhelia transfer race
Arsenal under Mikel Arteta follow the tactical side of this debate. Although they have top quality players, Arteta’s system believes in rigidity and discipline. They do not lose shape and stick to their plans. Some feel that this has contributed to their success for being a title contender. Therefore, for Arsenal the results justify Arteta’s approach. However, Jorginho’s comments show us that the players react to this systems in different ways.
Author’s Opinion
Jorginho talks about his time at Arsenal. In this case, revealing how he lost the joy to play under Mikel Arteta. Thus, ultimately leading him to leave the club and find happiness elsewhere. This highlights the debate between tactics and player freedom. Also, showing the Gunners belief in rigid tactics that led to their progress.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add Six Sports as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Follow the latest updates from Premier League, La Liga and Champions League, or explore more Football stories, Football Teams & All Football Competitions . You can also check Latest Sports News or visit Six Sports for more updates.
Piyush Wankhede
Piyush Wankhede is a Junior Football Writer at Six Sports, contributing articles focused on football news, match developments, and player performances. As an emerging voice in football journalism, he provides clear and engaging coverage that helps readers stay updated on key events and stories in the sport. Through his work at Six Sports, Piyush delivers concise match reports, player analyses, and feature pieces that highlight trends and narratives shaping modern football. His writing combines attention to detail with accessibility, making it easy for readers to follow football developments.
Mentioned in this Article