Jorginho’s days at Chelsea seem numbered at this point

Jorginho’s days at Chelsea seem all but numbered now given the latest rumors out of the transfer market and recent performances by other Blues.

Jorginho has been one of the most divisive figures around Stamford Bridge for the entirety of his Chelsea career. While many disagree about his current place in Frank Lampard’s squad, there’s no denying that he’s a talented all-around footballer. Despite often being thought of as Maurizio Sarri’s right-hand man, the midfielder has lasted far longer than many would’ve guessed he would in England.

Jorginho’s going on three years with the Blues now and has managed to work his way up to vice captain. Despite all of this, a number of rumors coming out of Italy are beginning to make his future less certain than it was just a few months ago. Further, recent performances by some of the other budding Chelsea stars have seen his overall importance dwindle. Jorginho’s days with the Blues now seem numbered—for real this time.

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Before discussing anything related to the Italian’s future, it must be said that despite the heavy criticism he’s received over the years, he’s remained a consummate professional. Rumors of Jorginho’s loyalty and intentions with Chelsea have come into question many times, he’s remained one of the team’s most inspired voices throughout though. You may hear his agent chirp in the media, but you will never see Jorginho question his club in the public eye. This should be applauded as it’s not a regularity amongst modern day footballers. Further, his professionalism has clearly rubbed off on his teammates and his status as vice captain verifies this.

There was a point in time last season where many thought the regista’s exit would come during the summer of 2020 after being left out of the squad for a lengthy period. Billy Gilmour then got injured, Jorginho stepped in and all was right in the Italian’s world once again. Fast forward to present day and there are a few different things hinting at a Jorginho summer sale.

First and foremost, the Blues’ midfield is crowded as it is—especially in the defensive area. N’Golo Kante is the day-to-day starter as the anchor in Lampard’s 4-3-3, but behind him is Jorginho, Gilmour and occasionally Mateo Kovacic. Factor in Ethan Ampadu, who is currently on loan, but close to breaking into the first team, and things get even trickier. There is already a struggle for minutes and Lampard went on record just a few days ago saying that Gilmour’s performance against Morecambe has earned him more regular starts. This is bad news for Jorginho as he’ll be looking to maximize the time left as he turns the corner toward 30.

The 29-year-old still has over two years remaining on his contract, so there is no rush to make a decision on his future. Regardless, as that number creeps closer to just one-year left, his value diminishes. Chelsea has been heavily linked with West Ham defensive midfielder Declan Rice, as well. A move for Rice would add another name to a crowded midfield and of the aforementioned players on the depth charts, it makes the most sense to move on from Jorginho. The Blues likely won’t give him another deal beyond the one he currently has due to their over-30 policy and he’s not a key cog anyways.

Gilmour has shown he is more than capable of holding his own at this point and when paired with the ever-reliable Kante, there is hardly room for another individual to earn playing time. The two aforementioned defensive midfielders also fit Lampard’s fast-paced, possession-based style more than the Italian. Jorginho’s game is centered around a more methodical and tidy approach, which hasn’t exactly translated well to the English top flight at all times.

Lastly, it’s seemingly obvious that Chelsea will eventually send Jorginho back to Italy. His style of play is perfect for Serie A and that’s the place he calls home. The Blues have a good relationship with a number of Italian teams, Jorginho’s agent continually hints at a move back to the Bel Paese and there is also a possibility of a reunion with Sarri one day. It makes too much sense to question; Jorginho will play in Italy again in his career. It’s a matter of when, not if.

All of this being said, there is no ignoring the impact Jorginho has had on the dressing room during his time here. Although fans may not share the same opinions, we must all tip our caps to the mature midfield maestro and when the time comes, thank him for all he’s given Chelsea. There comes a point in time when clubs must part ways with their players simply because of the circumstances surrounding the position—this is one of those times.