Jorginho’s Europa League eligibility for Arsenal

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Can Jorginho play in the Europa League for Arsenal? A number of fans have been asking after the Gunners signed him in a £12m move from Chelsea.

Mikel Arteta and Edu – Director of Football at the Emirates Stadium – wanted to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton, but after seeing a second bid worth £70m rejected, their focus turned to the Italy international.

Having already featured in the Champions League for Chelsea this season, some Arsenal fans have wondered if the 31-year-old can partake in another UEFA competition this term.

So, can Jorginho play in the Europa League for Arsenal? Let’s take a look…

Can Jorginho play in the Europa League for Arsenal?

Well, Jorginho has already made six appearances in the Champions League for Chelsea this season.

Despite that, the Brazil-born maestro is allowed to represent Arsenal in the Europa League.

UEFA’s official website states: “As of the round of 16, a club may register a maximum of three new eligible players for the remaining matches in the current competition. Such registration must be completed by 2nd February 2023 at the latest. This deadline cannot be extended.

“Any or all of the players from the above quota of three may have been fielded for another club in the qualifying phase, play-offs or group stage of the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League or UEFA Europa Conference League.”

Arteta and Edu have already signed Leandro Trossard and Jakub Kiwior, so Jorginho will fill the third and final registration slot for new signings.

The new Arsenal No.20 will also bring vast amounts of experience to the Emirates Stadium, and has actually already won the Europa League during his time at Stamford Bridge, as well as the Champions League.

Of course, some Arsenal fans are feeling quite underwhelmed after having the likes of Caicedo dangled in front of them, but the signing of Jorginho, who was named UEFA Men’s Player of the Year in 2021, should not be scoffed at – especially for a sum of just £12m.