Against Liverpool, Jorginho took centre stage and sent a message to Spalletti and Italy.
Jorginho, an Italy international, proved he can still be a vital member of Italy’s squad in the Euros when he was named MOTM in Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Liverpool on Sunday, says Lorenzo Bettoni.
This past weekend, Mikel Arteta made his first start for the Italy international since November. It was a wise move, as the former midfielder for Hellas Verona and Napoli was crowned MOTM at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite not being a regular starter at Arsenal anymore, the 31-year-old has still played 1.021 minutes this season, and his strong performance against the Reds demonstrated that he can still be a key member of Italy’s squad for the European Championships in the summer.
For the first time in his tenure, Luciano Spalletti gave him a call in November of last year and gave an explanation for why he kept the seasoned midfield player on the team.
Because he had never made a feature appearance for his club, he was not called up the first time. “The second time, he had started two out of seven games before getting hurt and being substituted,” the Azzurri coach stated during a Football Italia-attended press conference.
But it’s important to note that he has always wanted to be a part of this team. He told me how much he loved this shirt and these colours when we spoke. He is playing frequently now, and it appears that he is growing in condition. He is the Regista who provides directions to the team. He was appointed captain of Arsenal. This decision was made with some favourable signals. He never experienced exclusion from the group.
Against Liverpool, Jorginho was the best player for Arsenal in terms of precise passes, passes in the final third, touches, and interceptions. His impressive display in a crucial Premier League match indicates that the 31-year-old can still contribute to the Azzurri.
As Italy’s playmakers thus far, Spalletti has also utilised Bryan Cristante and Manuel Locatelli, but none of them look to have the same skill as the midfielder from Brazil, who won the Euros three years ago and has five goals in 50 appearances for his country.
Jorginho has missed three consecutive penalty shots, including one against North Macedonia in November, so it is undoubtedly too early to judge his performance with the Azzurri.
Nevertheless, Spalletti will probably start him in the starting lineup for Italy’s upcoming games due to his defensive dedication and build-up contribution, which make him one of the best contenders for the Regista position.
Next up for the Azzurri are matches against Ecuador in New York on March 24 and Venezuela in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 21.
