New Arsenal signing Jorginho says he is excited to finally play for Mikel Arteta after revealing that he has been close to a move to the Emirates Stadium before.
The Italian international arrived from Chelsea on deadline day and during his first interview with Arsenal.com, the Brazilian-born player admitted when he heard of Arsenal’s interest in the past it piqued his interest, and is now pleased to finally have the opportunity to pull on the Gunners famous red and white shirt.
Speaking about his new boss, Jorginho said: “He was a big influence because I know that he tried a few times to get me before and it didn’t happen due to other reasons, not because of my wishes. So of course, he had a big influence.
“I’m very excited for this new challenge, and I just can’t wait to be on the pitch to be honest! Everything has happened so fast. I was a bit surprised, but I took the opportunity of this amazing challenge.
“It’s an important shirt. It’s an amazing club, a big one, and I’m really excited and happy to be here.”
Jorginho comes into our squad having played against us 10 times in his career, including in our last league encounter against the Blues in November.
That has given him a unique perspective on our strengths and weaknesses, and he has been impressed with what we’ve achieved already this term which he hopes to help build on as we reach the business end of the campaign.
Reflecting on November’s game, he admitted: “It was tough, it was a hard time! Even in pre-season we had a friendly match, and I could feel and see that Arsenal would do very well this season. So, when we faced each other again at Stamford Bridge, it wasn’t a surprise for me at all.
“I’ll try to just bring positive energy, hard work and my experience to help the team. It’s what I always bring with me.
“I try just to help with the experience I’ve had in my time with the other clubs and anything I can do just to help the team to achieve more and more, that’s my target. All I can promise is that I’m going to give my all to represent this club.”
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