Barça is playing for it all tonight. No less than against Inter, in a key duel for a place in the Champions League final. Tension is palpable, nerves are present, but so is excitement.
Hansi Flick's Barça is ready to make a statement, they trust in their play, their character, and above all, in their key players. One of them, without a doubt, is Pedri, the Canary Islander will once again be the engine of the team in the midfield. His vision, touch, and reading of the game make him essential on nights like this.
A Signing That Won't Happen
For months, Barça considered strengthening the midfield. The idea was to find a profile that would fit alongside Pedri. Someone with experience, judgment, and who would offer immediate guarantees.
One of the names they liked the most was Jorginho, the current midfielder for Arsenal. It wasn't a secret that the Italian fit the type of footballer the Catalan club was looking for. Control of the pace, security with the ball, and tactical reading, he had it all, but the story has taken an unexpected turn.
Destination: Brazil
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Jorginho has said goodbye to European soccer. The 33-year-old midfielder will not continue at Arsenal. His future is in Brazil.
Flamengo will be his next destination. There he will sign as a free agent and commit for three seasons, until 2028. A change of continent, pace, and soccer culture.
For many, it's a surprise. It was expected that he would continue in Europe, perhaps as a star signing for a team aiming to dominate from the ball. But Jorginho has opted for a different challenge.
A Lost Opportunity
For Barça, this decision closes a door. He was one of the names highlighted in red to strengthen an area of the field that needs balance and experience. But it will no longer be possible.
Jorginho will never play alongside Pedri at Camp Nou. He won't wear the blaugrana, he won't face the challenges of Spanish soccer. He has chosen the warmth of Rio de Janeiro and Flamengo's ambitious project.
Meanwhile, Barça has a much more urgent mission: to eliminate Inter and get closer to European glory. With or without reinforcements, it's time to believe in those who are there, to trust in Pedri, in the team, in Flick. And although Jorginho is already a thing of the past for Barça, the present is more important than ever.