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Jorginho spent two-and-a-half years at Arsenal (Picture: Getty)
Jorginho has released an emotional statement confirming his departure from Arsenal.
The Italian midfielder spent two-and-a-half years at Arsenal after joining the club in January 2023 in a £12m move from Chelsea.
Jorginho won the Champions League at Stamford Bridge and while trophies eluded him at the Emirates Stadium, he was a popular figure in the dressing room and among Arsenal fans.
Mikel Arteta was even reportedly trying to convince the 33-year-old to stay at Arsenal for another 12 months but Jorginho confirmed his departure on Tuesday evening.
Jorginho is now set to return to the place of his birth, having agreed a three-year deal with Brazilian side Flamengo.
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Flamengo tried to sign Jorginho in January and have finally secured his signature ahead of the 2025-26 season and the upcoming Club World Cup.
‘You know, sometimes the season is more than just football,’ Jorginho said. ‘It’s about moments, people, growth.
‘It’s about feeling part of something bigger. When I arrived at Arsenal, I wasn’t just joining a club, I was stepping into a family. A team full of hunger, passion, purpose.
‘I gave everything I had, every day, every match. Not just for the results, but for this shirt, for the fans. Your support, it meant everything.
‘Whether I was starting or on the bench, you made me feel valued, loved. That’s rare in football and I’ll never forget it. Now, it’s time to say goodbye, or maybe a see you soon.
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Jorginho bidding farewell to Arsenal fans (Picture: Getty)
‘When a place feels like home, a farewell is never easy. But I leave with my head held high and my heart full. To my team-mates, thank you for trusting me, for pushing me.
‘To the coach, the staff and the whole people behind the scenes, thank you for your support on the pitch, off the pitch and for always being there for me with kindness and love.
‘And to the fans, thank you for singing my name, for believing in me. Thank you Arsenal.’
Confirmation of Jorginho’s departure will only strengthen Arteta’s desire to keep fellow midfielder Thomas Partey at the club.
Like Jorginho, Partey is also coming to the end of his current contract at the Emirates Stadium.
The Ghana international is open to staying at Arsenal but has attracted interest from Atletico Madrid and Juventus as well as clubs in Saudi Arabia.
Arteta’s midfield will be bolstered this summer by the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, who is expected to compete a £51m move to north London.
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