Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski labelled Jorginho’s accomplishments with Chelsea and Italy in 2021 as ‘insane’.
Speaking in a press conference (as quoted by Goal) after being named the FIFA Men’s Player of the Year last night, Lewandowski credited Jorginho for a terrific 12 months for club and country.
Coming from the man who scored 69 goals across all competitions, won the Ballon d’Or Striker of the Year and the European Golden Shoe, this is high praise indeed.
Not bad from Jorginho
Jorginho joined the Bayern front man in the FIFPro World XI yesterday, following his excursions in the two different shades of blue.
He conducted Chelsea through their Champions League campaign, ending with their crescendo win against Manchester City last May.
The 30-year-old then similarly orchestrated Italy to the European Championship trophy, before scoring in the UEFA Superfinal penalty shoot-out victory over Villarreal just a few weeks later.
His efforts in both competitions were rewarded further with the honour of being named UEFA Men’s Player of the Year.
Plus, the £50m (BBC) signing from Napoli finished third in the Ballon d’Or rankings behind Lewandowski and eventual victor Lionel Messi.
Seal of approval from Lewandowski
Some résumé for a player that is still chastised by certain sections of the industry.
Had it been down to Bayern’s number nine, Jorginho would have added the FIFA Men’s Player of the Year prize as well to his CV.
“I always look at attacking players but what Jorginho won means a lot. You always have to remain neutral,” said Lewandowski when asked why he voted for the Chelsea midfielder for Monday’s top accolade.
“He also scored important goals despite being a number six. The year, for him, was insane with Chelsea and Italy.”
There has been a slight drop off in Jorginho’s performances this season, which is totally understandable considering the amount of work he’s gone through since Thomas Tuchel took over.
2022 might not be as glamorous for the decorated ‘regista’, but the honours could still tumble into his lap if the Blues play their cards right.
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