Mikel Arteta insists Jorginho’s ‘unique’ playing style played a key role in the decision to hand the experienced midfielder a new one-year contract.
The experienced Italy international joined the Gunners 18 months ago from Chelsea after Arsenal failed in their attempts to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton.
Jorginho has subsequently proved a shrewd acquisition, adding experience and ingenuity to the Gunners’ engine room.
While has lost his place to the fit again Thomas Partey in recent weeks, his value to Arteta has never been in question.
The 32-year-old was set to become a free agent in the summer and a return to Serie A had looked increasingly likely.
Arteta and Arsenal’s Sporting Director, Edu, fought hard to persuade Jorginho to commit for a further 12 months and the player has now put pen to paper on a new 12-month deal.
‘We’re delighted that Jorgi has signed a new contract with us. Jorgi is such an important part of our team, a role model with great leadership skills and a unique playing style ability which makes everybody better around him on the pitch,’ said Arteta.
‘We’re very pleased that Jorgi and his family have committed with us and we’re all excited to continue this journey together.’
Edu, added: ‘We’re very happy to have Jorgi sign a contract extension with us. He represents what we stand for here at Arsenal with his professionalism and success.
‘I know everyone at the club will be very excited that Jorgi will continue to be with us, not only the players and coaches, but all the staff behind the scenes as well. It’s great that Jorginho remains with us, as we continue building to be better and stronger.’
Despite the intense speculation surrounding his future, Jorginho insists it was a straightforward decision to extend his stay in north London.
‘There was not much to discuss to be honest,’ he said. ‘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.
‘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.’
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