Jorginho on new contract: “I have more to do"

Jorginho has spoken about his special connection with our supporters upon signing a new contract with the club.

The midfielder arrived during the January transfer window last year, and soon became a hit with our fanbase by bringing a calm authority to the centre of the park.

The Italy international has now played more than 50 times for us, including some standout performances in recent high-profile games, and there’s more to come after he chose to extend his stay with us.

Reflecting on his time in north London so far, Jorginho said: “It’s been really positive, because I felt part of something big straight away. I felt involved and really in a good place. It’s not always like that, so when you feel something like this, it’s something important. 

“I’m really happy to stay, because it’s a privilege to be a part of this family. My family is happy, we are really well settled and there’s more to come!”

The 32-year-old added that it was a simple decision to put pen to paper, and his conversations with Mikel Arteta and Edu were brief.

“There was not much to discuss to be honest,” he smiled, “because I feel really good here. Just to know that they appreciate me and want me to stay longer as well, it’s a big thing for me. I feel that I have more to do, so that’s the reason why I’m staying.”

Another factor in his decision, he said, was the welcome he’s had from Arsenal supporters since his switch from London rivals Chelsea last winter. 

“That means a lot. And that’s one more reason for signing the contract because I feel I can – and I want to – give more to them, because they’ve been giving a lot of affection and support to me. All I want is to give it back.

“I try to give everything I can of myself to everyone around. Sometimes that can be a cuddle, sometimes it can be words, sometimes show them something. I just try to help as much as I can in any situation. I feel that everyone here can count on me. I will always be there for them.”

Now his contract is signed and sealed, his focus is fully on the end of the season. During a glittering career so far, the Brazil-born Italy international has won the European Championship, Champions League, Europa League, Club World Cup, Coppa Italia and other major honours, as well as being named third in the 2021 Ballon d’Or. But throughout his club career, he’s yet to win a league title. 

“That’s missing!” he said. “It’s something that definitely I would like to add to that list and it would mean a lot to me.

“I want to win as much as I can, and enjoy the moment because that’s really important for me. If you are somewhere where you are not enjoying it, or you are not happy, then it’s difficult. So moving forward is trying to be happy and achieve as much as we can.”

You can watch the full interview with Jorginho by clicking play on the video above.

Celebrate the news by testing your knowledge of Jorgi's time with us, watching his best moments or finding out 20 things you might not know about our no. 20.