Declan Rice reacts as Jorginho prepares to jet off following Arsenal exit
Declan Rice has reacted to a photo posted by Jorginho showing the outgoing Arsenal midfielder stood next to an aeroplane.
Jorginho has confirmed he is leaving the Emirates Stadium this summer, after making 79 appearances for the Gunners since joining from Chelsea in 2023.
The Italy international’s last Arsenal appearances arrived on 18 May, when he made a one-minute cameo during a 1-0 win over Newcastle.
Mikel Arteta’s men defeated Southampton 2-1 on the final day of the season on Sunday, 25 May, while Jorginho watched on as an unused substitute.
Rice reacts as Jorginho shares poignant message following Arsenal exit
Rice has been a key figure for Arteta’s side this term, notching a career-best return of nine goals and 10 assists across all competitions.
Meanwhile, Jorginho posted a photo showing himself and his family boarding a plane, captioned: “Time to recharge and spend some time with the family.”
Both Rice and Gabriel Jesus gave the post a like.
Arsenal split over Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal are closing in on Martin Zubimendi, a signing which the departure of fellow central midfielder Jorginho has somewhat paved the way for.
| Jorginho Arsenal stats | 2023-25 |
| Appearances | 79 |
| Goals | 2 |
But the Gunners, who scored 17 goals fewer than Premier League champions Liverpool, must utilise the summer transfer window to bolster their forward line.
With that in mind, the North Londoners have been heavily linked with a move for Sporting Club star Viktor Gyokeres, who has notched a sensational return of 54 goals and 12 assists this term.
However, Arsenal are internally split over Gyokeres, which could dampen their chances of bringing the former Coventry City man to the Emirates Stadium.
But if Arteta’s men sign the Sweden international, he could prove to be a key figure in closing the gap between the North London outfit and Liverpool.
It is clear that Arsenal currently lack a clinical attacker who can have a similar impact to that of Manchester City’s Erling Haaland or Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah.