Why Arsenal Should Drop Jorginho and Start Declan Rice for Champions League Clash Against Atalanta
Arsenal have indeed faced a challenging few weeks, with injuries to key players like Mikel Merino, Martin Odegaard, and the suspension of Declan Rice, all testing Mikel Arteta’s squad depth.
Despite these setbacks, Arteta’s team still managed a hard-fought 1-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur, demonstrating their resilience even without their first-choice midfield.
One key player in that game was Jorginho, who filled in for Rice. While Jorginho’s effort and leadership were evident, his performance exposed some limitations that could become a liability in tougher fixtures like Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League opener against Atalanta.
Jorginho took only 29 touches during the match, fewer than goalkeeper David Raya, and struggled in several key duels.
His lack of mobility and fatigue were noticeable, and football analysts, including Kaya Kaynak, rated his performance as a 5/10, citing his difficulty in dealing with Spurs winger Dejan Kulusevski.
Given these factors, it would be wise for Arteta to rest Jorginho for the Atalanta match. Instead, he should reinstate Declan Rice, who is not only Arsenal’s most capable defensive midfielder but also vital to their success at both ends of the pitch.
In the 2023/24 season, Rice demonstrated his ability to contribute offensively as well, with seven goals and ten assists. Starting Rice against Atalanta would also allow him to regain match fitness ahead of the crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City.
While Jorginho’s experience and tactical awareness can still be valuable in managing games, Rice’s dynamism, defensive solidity, and ability to control the midfield make him the better choice for Arsenal’s big European night. Additionally, giving Rice some minutes against Atalanta ensures he’s fully prepared for the much-anticipated showdown with City, where his influence will be needed the most.
In conclusion, Jorginho did a commendable job in a difficult derby, but Arsenal’s midfield will need Rice’s energy and quality for the challenges ahead.
Why Arsenal Should Drop Jorginho and Start Declan Rice for Champions League Clash Against Atalanta
