LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 08: Jorginho of Chelsea during the UEFA Champions League Group E stage match between Chelsea FC and FC Krasnodar at Stamford Bridge on December 08, 2020 in London, England. A limited number of fans (2000) are welcomed back to stadiums to watch elite football across England. This was following easing of restrictions on spectators in tiers one and two areas only. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
According to Sky Sports (h/t Mirror), Jorginho is set to face the axe at Chelsea as he is among seven players who are set to be offloaded by the club. The Blues want to bring in the likes of Erling Haaland and Declan Rice and are willing to sell a lot of their players to generate funds.
The 29-year-old moved to Chelsea in 2018 along with manager Maurizio Sarri. Jorginho struggled in his first season as he looked a bit slow for the fast-paced nature of the Premier League. His form improved over the last season and was one of Frank Lampard’s most trusted players.
He has made over 100 appearances for them to date, scoring 13 and assisting 3 goals (source – Transfermarkt). This season, however, despite starting strongly, he has gone off the radar a bit. Since then, he has been in and out of the team and has often featured in sporadic games.
Ever since Jorginho arrived at Stamford Bridge, he has been under constant scrutiny. There was a ruckus about him playing as a defensive midfielder instead of Kante. His performances were also showing a lack of confidence.
With the arrival of Frank Lampard, Jorginho started to replicate his Napoli form that prompted Chelsea to sign him in the first place. He has looked assured in passing, holding up the ball and screening his defence.
Yes, he may not be an assured starter right now, but he does remain one of Chelsea’s most influential and effective players. As a regista, he is a very unique player who comes with a gifted range of passing.
Chelsea simply don’t have anyone in that ilk to replace Jorginho. It is understandable that the club wants to get Declan Rice but that doesn’t mean they should sacrifice a player like Jorginho.
He has been one of their most consistent performers throughout and even snubbed a move to rivals Arsenal earlier in the season. He adds a sense of calmness to the side and gives them that ability to control the game with ease. Chelsea would be making a huge mistake in letting go of Jorginho.