One Arsenal player on international duty recently outclassed one Chelsea star in a clash between nations.
Jorginho was part of the Italy side that beat Ecuador 2-0 at New York’s Red Bull Arena on Sunday.
The veteran Arsenal midfielder started in the middle of the park for Italy, and produced a masterful display. He came up against Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo in that part of the pitch.
Jorginho has been in fine form for the Gunners in recent months. The 32-year-old has demonstrated his enduring quality, and importance to Mikel Arteta’s squad, by forming an impressive partnership with Declan Rice.
With Jorginho sitting a little deeper, at the base of the midfield trio, he provides a platform and freedom for the former West Ham United man to push forward into more advanced areas. He has also caught the eye with his accurate and progressive range of passing, and has been hailed for the calmness and composure he brings to the side.
Why Jorginho is so important to Arsenal
Despite clamour for his stay at the Emirates Stadium to be extended, as things stand Jorginho is still set to leave Arsenal as a free agent at the end of this season. He is deserving of a new deal though, and his presence in north London will be vital throughout what remains of this campaign.
Arteta has already called a Jorginho a “world-class” talent, and he will be leaning on his experience and consistency heavily throughout the run-in.
It is perhaps fair to say that Arteta would prefer if it Jorginho was not on international duty at all, and was instead using this time to rest up. The Spanish coach will be especially displeased with the demanding travel schedule that the Italy squad must contend with this week, as they are contesting exhibition matches around the USA.
In any case, as long as he does not pick up an injury, Jorginho ought to return to the Emirates Stadium full of confidence and raring to go.
Jorginho wins head-to-head against Moises Caicedo
The 52-cap international has carried his good club form into the international arena. As per Sofascore statistics, he was imperious against the South American team. Jorginho won 100% of his duels, was accurate with 90% of his passes, and successfully made three tackles.
Caicedo did not have such a good outing. The £115 million Chelsea man was outclassed by his Arsenal counterpart, whose place he took at Stamford Bridge after Jorginho made the switch to north London.