Jorginho has confirmed that his time as an Arsenal player has come to an end, with the midfielder set to join Brazilian side Flamengo on a free transfer.
The Italy international was technically under contract until the end of June but has been granted early release to take part in the FIFA Club World Cup, which is being hosted in the United States.
Jorginho arrived at Arsenal from Chelsea in January 2023, initially brought in to cover for Mohamed Elneny following a season-ending knee injury. Despite doubts from a sizable chunk of the fanbase, the 32-year-old proved a shrewd signing by Mikel Arteta, who had long been an admirer.
He provided experienced cover for Thomas Partey and Declan Rice, and was rewarded with a one-year contract extension last summer.
In total, Jorginho made 79 appearances for the Gunners, scoring twice and registering three assists. His most iconic moment went down as an own goal, when his stoppage-time effort at Villa Park ricocheted in off Emi Martínez, sparking jubilant scenes in the away end.
Off the pitch, his experience was valued by the coaching staff, and he often acted as an on-pitch organiser, even while warming up as a substitute.
It’ll be interesting to see how he gets on at Flamengo. He hasn’t played domestic football in Brazil since his teenage years, and it feels like a move he’s long wanted to make.
Already armed with a UEFA B Coaching Licence, he’s widely tipped to move into management when he hangs up his boots.
Good luck to him.