Jorginho, the standout midfielder for Italy during Euro 2020, could have been playing for Brazil, his birth country. Instead, he will once again represent Italy at this summer’s European Championship, following his critical role in Italy’s victory over England at Wembley in 2021.
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Did Jorginho snub Brazil?
So, why doesn’t Jorginho play for Brazil? The answer lies in his family heritage and the timing of his national team call-up. Eligible to play for Italy through his great-grandfather from Venice, Jorginho moved from Brazil to Italy in 2007 at just 15, joining Hellas Verona before transferring to Napoli in 2014.
Italy was the first to approach him for national team duties, calling him up in 2016. Brazil expressed interest a year later, but by then, Jorginho had already committed to Italy.
He explained to Sky Sports Italia that the decision was tough but ultimately fulfilling. He felt and still feels deeply connected to Italy.
A big congratulations to #Jorginho 🇮🇹👏🔥 https://t.co/pYeBb245oa
— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri_En) November 29, 2021
As he prepares for another European Championship with Italy, his story remains a fascinating aspect of his successful career.
Remembering Zagallo
Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.
Binge the full series, available on Sambafoot’s Youtube channel.
