An unexpected link between Arsenal’s transfer dealings and Chelsea’s recent defeat in the Club World Cup has emerged, centered around former Gunners midfielder Jorginho. Arsenal’s decision to agree to an early termination of the Italy international’s contract earlier this month paved the way for him to join Brazilian side Flamengo, who subsequently delivered a surprising 3-1 defeat to Chelsea in the tournament’s group stage.
Jorginho, who spent two-and-a-half seasons at the Emirates making 79 appearances, was initially contracted to Arsenal until July 2025. However, the 33-year-old reached an agreement for an early release, allowing him to register and participate in the Club World Cup with Flamengo from the group stage onwards.
His impact at his new club has been immediate. On his debut against Esperance Tunis, Jorginho provided an assist in a 2-0 victory. He then played the full 90 minutes as Flamengo took on his former club, Chelsea.
Flamengo Stun Chelsea in Group Stage
Chelsea took an early lead in the crucial group stage encounter through Pedro Neto. However, Flamengo mounted a strong second-half comeback. Goals from Bruno Henrique, Danilo, and substitute Wallace Yan came in quick succession, turning the game around to secure a decisive 3-1 win for the Brazilian side.
Speaking after the match, Jorginho revealed that Flamengo had strategically prepared to exploit Chelsea’s weaknesses. “We put [Chelsea] in trouble, we worked a lot on how we could hurt them,” he commented, adding, “We knew we could hurt them in some areas, but they are secrets.” He emphasised the importance of tactical details in big games and the confidence derived from their first-half performance.
For Chelsea, the defeat significantly complicates their path in the tournament. They now need at least a draw in their final group match against Esperance Tunis to stand any chance of progressing, while a loss would guarantee their elimination. Chelsea’s struggles were compounded by a Nicolas Jackson red card later in the match, although notably, this dismissal occurred after Flamengo had already established their 3-1 lead. Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel labelled Jackson’s actions a “stupid mistake,” highlighting concerns over decision-making.
In contrast, Jorginho and Flamengo have already secured qualification for the knockout stages and are now focused on topping their group.
The result also extends Jorginho’s remarkable record against Chelsea since leaving Stamford Bridge. Across appearances for both Arsenal and now Flamengo, he remains undefeated against his former employers, contributing to three wins and one draw in games he’s featured in. He was also an unused substitute in two other matches against Chelsea this season where Arsenal achieved a win and a draw.
Ultimately, Arsenal’s decision to facilitate Jorginho’s early departure had a direct consequence on the Club World Cup, enabling the midfielder to join Flamengo and play a part in a result that leaves Chelsea facing an uphill battle in the competition.
