When a footballer ‘cants hand over the club when its contract is about to end, it’s not just that a rumor spreads; it runs for Rio de Janeiro. People saw Italian international Jorginho, who has Brazilian roots, arriving in Rio and entering a car. Holiday? Maybe. Should you believe that I have a bridge to sell you?
Jorginho’s Arsenal deal is expiring this summer, and already higher clubs such as Flamengo appear as emaciated vultures circling over their next choice meal. The player may be telling the truth, that he has come to Brazil for a bit of sun and samba, but his timing suggests some very unsavory things indeed.
Why Jorginho Leaving Arsenal Isn’t Just Another Exit
Jorginho’s packing his bags will not be a routine goodbye. But, although 33 (or “experienced,” his PR team would perhaps prefer you to describe him as), he is still a key cog in Mikel Arteta’s midfield machine. His lack of covering the ground like a teenager on a whole lot of energy drinks is mitigated by the fact that his football IQ is off the charts.
Yet Father Time waits for no one. A return to Brazil would be sensible at this stage of his career. Jorginho’s elegant style would seem to be the perfect fit for the slower tempo of the Brazilian. Imagine him pulling the strings after a smoothie while an açaí. Now that is life.
Arsenal Already Eyeing his Replacement
Gunners fans, relax; Edu and Arteta haven’t gone to sleep at the wheel. Reports also indicate that Arsenal is making significant progress in negotiations with Martin Zubimendi, a player who could strengthen their midfield. Of course, I expect them to remain in the party if they are feeling generous with the football gods and someone like Bruno Guimarães or Pablo Barrios comes walking in.
The problem isn’t simply replacing Jorginho’s experience, though. You’re not exactly doing that when you replace a guy who’s won the Champions League and played in a European final with a reserve team hopeful.
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