Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has issued a challenge to veteran midfielder Jorginho, urging the Italian international to elevate his performances despite the Gunners’ emphatic 5-2 victory against West Ham in the Premier League. While the win showcased Arsenal’s attacking prowess, Arteta highlighted areas where Jorginho needs to sharpen his game to maintain his place in the squad.
A Commanding Performance with Room for Growth
The match at the London Stadium was a thrilling affair, with Arsenal showcasing their relentless attacking football. Goals from Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and a brace from Leandro Trossard ensured the Gunners secured all three points.
Jorginho, who started in the midfield pivot alongside Declan Rice, had a mixed outing. While he displayed his trademark composure on the ball and contributed to Arsenal’s build-up play, Arteta believes there is more to come from the 31-year-old.
Speaking after the game, Arteta said:
“Jorginho is an experienced player, and we know his quality on the ball. But in certain moments, especially under pressure, we need him to be quicker and more decisive in transitions. Against top teams, those moments can make the difference.”
Areas for Improvement
Arteta’s comments appear to focus on Jorginho’s defensive contribution and agility in Arsenal’s high-octane system. While his ability to dictate tempo is undeniable, critics have occasionally pointed to his lack of pace and defensive solidity as potential weaknesses.
In the match against West Ham, Jorginho was occasionally caught out of position during counter-attacks, leading to opportunities for the Hammers. This vulnerability was particularly evident during Jarrod Bowen’s first-half goal, where Jorginho failed to track his runner.
Arteta elaborated:
“We play a very demanding style of football, and every player must adapt to the intensity and the transitions. Jorginho’s intelligence is key, but we need to see that applied consistently throughout the 90 minutes.”
Jorginho’s Response
Despite the criticism, Jorginho remains a pivotal figure in Arsenal’s squad, especially with his vast experience in high-stakes games. Speaking to the press post-match, Jorginho acknowledged Arteta’s comments:
“The manager is right. I know I can do better in certain situations. It’s a team effort, and I’m working hard every day to adapt to the demands and help the team achieve our goals.”
Arsenal’s Midfield Competition
The call for improvement comes as competition in Arsenal’s midfield intensifies. With Declan Rice thriving in his role and Thomas Partey nearing full fitness, Jorginho will need to ensure his performances remain at a high level to secure consistent minutes.
Looking Ahead
Arsenal’s convincing win against West Ham keeps them firmly in the title race, but Arteta’s comments underline his drive for perfection. With fixtures against top opposition on the horizon, the Spaniard is leaving no room for complacency.
For Jorginho, this is an opportunity to prove his worth and showcase why he remains one of Europe’s most reliable midfielders. As Arsenal continues its pursuit of silverware, the midfielder’s response to Arteta’s challenge could play a crucial role in the team’s success.
