"The tactics side of it and everything, it drives me mad!” - Arsenal star opens up on taking studies for coaching role 

Football has seen numerous midfielders transition into the coaching side of the game, and Arsenal star Jorginho appears to be the latest in line. The Italian recently shared the story behind his interest in management, revealing that the tactical aspect of the game drives him 'mad'.

Jorginho joined Arsenal from Chelsea in January 2023 for a reported fee of £12 million. He has primarily served as a backup to Thomas Partey and Declan Rice but has proven crucial for Mikel Arteta when called on. The Italian also recently extended his stay with the Gunners, as Arteta values his experience as a vital asset to the squad.

Now approaching the latter stages of his career, the midfielder has shown a strong interest in coaching and seems to be enjoying it. Discussing this newfound passion, the Arsenal star has expressed delight in instructing players.

“I loved being on the pitch coaching, seeing the players, trying to see them play the way I was asking them. The tactics side of it and everything, it drives me mad!” he said (via Tribal Football).

Jorginho admitted that his interest in the coaching side of football only developed after joining Arsenal. He also stated that he initially hadn't considered management despite several people around him suggesting he could thrive in the role due to his tactical insight.

“I was thinking about staying in football, but not as a coach, because of the commitment basically, and the time. So I was set in my mind – no! I thought I would become a scout or an agent – something that helped young players get an opportunity."

"But then I came to Arsenal and they said, ‘Do you want to do your badges?’ I was like, I’m not sure, but why not? Could be worth having in the pocket one day, he added.

This interest has now become a serious focus, as Jorginho has already completed multiple coaching badges while working with the club's Hale End Academy.

Over the course of his career, the midfielder has notably been guided by some of the game’s top managers, including Maurizio Sarri, Thomas Tuchel, Roberto Mancini, and Mikel Arteta.

Jorginho heaps praise on Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta

Mikel Arteta has undoubtedly transformed Arsenal since his arrival in 2019. Under his leadership, the Gunners have improved with each season and are now consistent challengers for the Premier League title. Additionally, several players have developed under Arteta’s guidance, which highlights his coaching abilities.

Despite not getting frequent game time under Arteta, Jorginho has heaped praise on the young manager, noting that he continues to learn from him.

"You have Mikel there, for me he’s a great, great, great coach. He’s super young and he has a long way to go. And he knows so much about the game that he can improve any player, so I’m trying to learn, to listen and learn as much as I can,” he told the Seaman Says Podcast (via Football.london).

Arsenal are poised to contend for the title alongside Manchester City and Liverpool gain. Currently in third place, they trail league leaders Manchester City by five points, with 29 games remaining in the Premier League season.