Arsenal fan favourite heads home in surprise Flamengo switch | OneFootball

Jorginho’s long-anticipated move to Flamengo looks set to be finalized, as the midfielder bids farewell to Arsenal and prepares to return to Brazil for the first time in his professional career. With his contract at Arsenal expiring at season’s end, negotiations between Jorginho and Flamengo have reached an advanced stage, with final paperwork now in progress.

On Tuesday, Jorginho published a message on social media announcing his departure from Arsenal after two years in north London. He reflected on his time at the club, stating, “When I arrived at Arsenal, I didn’t just join a club. I joined a family. You made me feel loved. That is rare in football. I’ll never forget it. It’s time to say goodbye, or see you soon. When a place feels like home, saying farewell is never easy, but I leave with my head held high and my heart full.”

Flamengo and Jorginho have already agreed on a timeline for his arrival in Brazil, with the player expected to land between June 5 and 6—just days before the squad travels to the United States to contest the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 14. Jorginho’s wedding to Irish singer Catherine Harding is scheduled for June 2, after which he will take two days off before heading to Brazil.

Financial terms have been settled between Flamengo and the midfielder, with only minor details left to formalize the agreement. Jorginho’s preference was to join Flamengo, though his representatives initially waited to hear a proposal from Saudi club Neom. Ultimately, family considerations—strongly influenced by Harding’s lack of interest in a move to Saudi Arabia, and her approval of Rio de Janeiro after a recent visit—tipped the balance in Flamengo’s favor.

Jorginho, 33, has never played professionally in Brazil, having moved to Italy early in his career before making his name with Hellas Verona, Napoli, Chelsea, and finally Arsenal. Notably, he won the 2020 European Championship with Italy, for whom he is naturalized and remains an important midfield figure.

For Flamengo, the imminent arrival of Jorginho adds further depth and experience to a squad already rich in international talent as the club seeks continental and global honors. While there are still minor contract details to finalize, club officials remain optimistic about announcing his signing soon.

Source: Globo