Jorginho Joins Flamengo From Arsenal Ahead Of FIFA Club World Cup 2025

‎Arsenal has announced the departure of Jorginho earlier than expected.

‎The former Chelsea midfielder was originally scheduled to leave when his contract at the Emirates Stadium expired at the end of this month.

‎Arsenal and Jorginho have now reached a mutual agreement for his slightly earlier departure, making him a free agent.

‎This allows him to join Brazilian club Flamengo in time for the upcoming expanded summer Club World Cup, which starts later this month in the United States.

‎The 33-year-old, who represents Italy at the international level but was born and raised in Brazil, has now been officially introduced as a Flamengo player. He has signed a three-year contract to play at the renowned Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

‎Jorginho will face his former club, Chelsea, at the Club World Cup. Flamengo, managed by ex-Blues full-back Filipe Luis, is scheduled to play against Enzo Maresca’s Conference League winners in Philadelphia on June 20.

‎First up is a meeting with Tunisian side Esperance de Tunis at Lincoln Financial Field on June 16, with Flamengo closing out Group D against play-off winners Los Angeles FC in Orlando on June 24.

‎“We can confirm that we have reached a mutual agreement with Jorginho to end his contract with immediate effect to become a free agent,” Arsenal said in an official statement on Friday, before the player signed for Flamengo.

‎“He became a hugely respected member of the squad. His natural leadership skills, together with his control in midfield, intelligent positioning, and extensive, high-quality passing, ensured that he was a valuable and integral part of the club.

‎“Everyone at Arsenal Football Club would like to thank Jorgi for his contribution to the club and we wish him and his family all the best for the future.”

‎Jorginho had already bid farewell to Arsenal last month with an emotional Instagram post which read, “You know, sometimes the season is more than just football. It’s about moments. People. Growth.

‎“It’s about feeling part of something bigger than yourself. When I arrived at Arsenal, I wasn’t just joining a club, I was stepping into a family. A team full of hunger. Passion. Purpose.

‎“I gave everything I had. Every day. Every match. Not just for the results, but for this shirt. For the fans.

‎“Your support… it meant everything. Whether I was starting or on the bench, you made me feel valued. Loved. That’s rare in football and I’ll never forget it. Now, it’s time to say goodbye. Or maybe see you soon.

‎“When a place feels like home, a farewell is never easy. But I leave with my head held high and my heart full. To my teammates, thank you for trusting me, for pushing me.

‎“To the coach, the staff, and the whole people behind the scenes, thank you for the support on the pitch, off the pitch, and for always being there for me with kindness and love.

‎“And to the fans, thank you for singing my name, for believing in me. Thank you, Arsenal. With love and respect, Jorginho. COYG.”

‎Jorginho is among 20 players leaving Arsenal this summer across the men’s, women’s, and youth sides. The club announced its retained list earlier this week.

‎Others departing include Kieran Tierney, who is rejoining Celtic, and loanees Raheem Sterling and Neto, who are returning to Chelsea and Bournemouth, respectively.

‎Portuguese full-back Nuno Tavares has completed a permanent move to Lazio, while winger Marquinhos will join loan club Cruzeiro on a full-time basis.

‎However, the Gunners have offered a new contract to fellow midfielder Thomas Partey, who has been linked with a potential move to Barcelona.