Mikel Arteta shares reason for substituting Jorginho during Arsenal vs Everton
Mikel Arteta has provided an explanation for his decision to substitute Jorginho during the halftime break of Arsenal’s 4-0 triumph over Everton on Wednesday.
Jorginho had started the match ahead of Thomas Partey, but the Italian midfielder was replaced by Partey for the second half.
Arteta has now confirmed that Jorginho was not feeling well after the first 45 minutes.
Arteta expressed his delight with the team’s performance, stating that it was an important game against a tough opponent who had caused them difficulties in their previous encounter at Goodison Park.
“We started the game with some frustration and not really understanding what we had to do and allowed them to run in certain transitions. But after 25 minutes we started to get much better and the timing of the two goals was key.
“We needed a magic moment there. And Alex (Zinchenko) produced that. And then the team grew especially with Thomas (Partey) as Jorg(inho) was not feeling good today.
“When he came on he really gave some presence and some stability to the team and I think the second half was superb.”
It is unclear whether Mikel Arteta was alluding to Jorginho being injured or simply feeling unwell when he substituted him during the halftime break of Arsenal’s match against Everton.
Jorginho joined Arsenal from Chelsea in January, for a transfer fee of around £12 million on the final day of the transfer window.
His contract with Arsenal will run until the summer of 2024, with the option of an additional year at the club’s discretion.
Speaking about Arteta to the club’s official website after he signed, Jorginho said: “He was a big influence because I know that he tried a few times to get me before and it didn’t happen due to other reasons, not because of my wishes. So of course, he had a big influence.
“I’m very excited for this new challenge, and I just can’t wait to be on the pitch to be honest! Everything has happened so fast. I was a bit surprised, but I took the opportunity of this amazing challenge.
“It’s an important shirt. It’s an amazing club, a big one, and I’m really excited and happy to be here.”
Mikel Arteta shares reason for substituting Jorginho during Arsenal vs Everton
