Jorginho admits Arteta reminds him of ex-Chelsea boss after Tottenham taunt
Arsenal's newest recruit Jorginho has explained how Mikel Arteta reminds him of ex-Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri and endeared himself to the Gunners faithful further with a dig at local rivals Tottenham.
The Italian international and former Stamford Bridge regular joined the Gunners on deadline day last month and has for the most part impressed in the three appearances he has made for the club so far. His arrival was greeted with a mixed response from the Arsenal fanbase, but Jorginho's vital contribution to the late winner against Aston Villa last Saturday has helped him settle.
The 31-year-old Champions League winner has since spoken about life under Arsenal manager Arteta and admitted he has spotted some similarities between the Spaniard and ex-Chelsea and Napoli boss Sarri.
"He [Arteta] reminds me a little bit of Sarri," Jorginho told BeIN Sport. "I am used to working with a manager that looks into the details. For me, details make the difference in the end between a good team and a winning team.
"I am sure, 100 per cent, that he worships [the details] so much. I’ve only been here a short time but I’m sure every day there is going to be something new and that’s why I’m so excited as well because I can see that I have so much to learn here."
Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rushJorginho is well-versed in how Sarri likes to operate, given he first worked under his fellow countryman at Napoli in 2015 before reuniting at Chelsea in 2018.
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With his stock already high in the eyes of Gunners' supporters because of his heroics at Villa Park, Jorginho's subtle swipe at Tottenham is only going to increase his popularity in the red half of North London.
Asked about the rivalry by DAZN, the Italian ace simply referenced Spurs' Champions League tie with AC Milan and left no doubt over who he would be supporting as he quipped: "Forza Milan."
He did go on to add: "The matches with Tottenham are those Arsenal fans look forward to the most. I am sure they will all support Milan."
If some of the supporters are still undecided on him, Arteta has made it clear he thinks incredibly highly of Jorginho with his comments after last weekend's late goal, though conceded shooting from range isn't exactly the Italian's trademark.
"We needed a magic moment and Jorginho produced it. He has many qualities but that probably isn't his biggest strength."
The pair are clearly delighted to be working together and regardless of Thomas Partey's fitness on Saturday, do not be surprised to see Jorginho keep his starting spot for the trip to Leicester.