Scott McTominay Jorginho Michy Batshuayi Chelsea Man United
McTominay Jorginho Michy Batshuayi Chelsea Man United

Chelsea midfielder Jorginho shocked everyone by joining London rivals Arsenal and now he’s explained why he took this decision.

His contract with the Blues was about to expire in the summer so Arsenal could have gotten him for free. However, the Gunners still chose to pay an €11.3 million fee for him.

Jorginho has signed a one-and-a-half-year deal with Arsenal and in his latest interview, the Italian international has laid down the two main reasons why he chose to move to North London.

“[Arteta] was one of the reasons, surely,” Jorginho has told DAZN. “He called me and it was all very quick, we made the deal in less than 48 hours.

“I had spoken to Chelsea and I knew I was no longer part of their plans. I wanted to progress in my career and the Arsenal project suits me.

“It’s a young team that plays good football and fits my characteristics. I considered every scenario and made the decision. Sometimes you must accept when you are out of a project and that things come to an end.”

Jorginho has featured in three games for Arsenal this season and against Manchester City and Villa, the 31-year-old looked really solid.

The midfielder knows very well that he is not going to be part of a long-term project at the Emirates Stadium but if he can help Arsenal win the Premier League then his transfer will be a massive success.

Chelsea have signed Enzo Fernandes so letting Jorginho leave is not a bad decision. However, this is actually a step up for the Italian because next season, he’s almost certain to play in the Champions League whereas the Blues are likely to miss out on a top-four finish.

Also, he’s joined a very positive and buoyant dressing room while his former side is in a complete mess right now. Whenever Thomas Partey is fully fit and available, Jorginho is going to start on the bench but the former Chelsea man won’t mind this if he can win the EPL by the end of May.