Jorginho reveals Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta had been trying to sign him for years after committing future to the Gunners

As his contract approached its conclusion this summer, Jorginho opted to prolong his stay, penning a short-term deal believed to span 12 months, with the possibility of an additional year. The 32-year-old midfield maestro has become a mainstay in Arteta's squad as the Gunners challenge for the top crown in England. Notably, Arteta's interest in the Italian dates back to his time at Napoli between 2014 and 2018, with the Arsenal manager making multiple attempts in the past to secure his signature.

"When he (Arteta) was at City and I was in Naples, that was the first time (he tried signing me) and then he tried twice when he was here and it didn't happen," Jorginho said after signing the new deal.

"But now fortunately it happened. I am here, happy, having the opportunity to work together with him and learning a lot from him."

With one year remaining on Arteta's contract, speculation surrounding his future has been rife. However, Jorginho remains confident in Arteta's commitment to Arsenal, citing the transformative impact the coach has had on the club.

"I feel that he could stay way longer," he said.

"I feel he feels good here and I honestly don't see him going. It is really important for the club for him to stay because him with Edu and the board, the whole club, they created something special. I don't believe he wants to go as well."

As Arsenal prepare for a crucial fixture against Manchester United on Sunday, Jorginho will aim to maintain the momentum garnered from recent successes. A victory against their rivals would bolster Arsenal's position at the top of the table, leaving Manchester City no room for error against Tottenham on Tuesday night.