New signing Jorginho is excited to finally play for Mikel Arteta after revealing he was close to a move to the Emirates Stadium earlier.
The Italian international arrived from Chelsea on deadline day to boost our options in midfield going into mid-season, as well as inject some experience into our young squad.
And in his first interview with Arsenal.com, the Brazilian-born cereuse admitted that when he heard of our interest in the past, he now decided to finally have the opportunity to pull on our iconic red and white shirt.
Speaking about the new boss, Jorginho said: “He was a great influence, because I know he tried to get me several times before and it didn’t happen for other reasons, not from my will. So of course he had great influence.
“I’m excited for this new challenge, and I just can’t wait to be honest with you! Everything happened so quickly. I was a little surprised, but I took the opportunity of a wonderful challenge.
“It’s a great shirt. It’s a wonderful club, a great one, and I’m excited and happy to be here.
Jorginho comes to our team, who has come against us 10 times in his career, in the most recent league meeting with Veneto since November.
That gave him a unique perspective on our strengths and weaknesses, and he is impressed that we have already achieved this term, which he hopes will help him reach the end of the campaign.
Reflecting on the November game, he admitted: “It was hard, it was a hard time! We also had friendly matches before the season, and I could feel that Arsenal would do very well this season. And so, when we turned again to Stamford Bridge, I was not at all surprised.
“I’ll just try to bring my positive energy, hard work and experience to help the team. This is what I will always carry with me.
“I’m just trying to help the experience I had in my time with other clubs and I can do anything just to help the team to achieve more and more, this is my goal. All I can promise is that I will give my all to represent this club.”
Watch the full interview by clicking the story above
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