Back
According to a report by the London Evening Standard on Saturday, October 24, 2026, former Arsenal midfielder Jorginho could face a worldwide football ban following reports that he returned an adverse result in an anti-doping test while playing for Brazilian club Flamengo.
The 34-year-old midfielder has reportedly become the subject of an investigation after an initial test conducted under the supervision of South American football governing body CONMEBOL produced a concerning result.
Reports from Brazil indicate that a second test has been scheduled for October 27 to determine whether the initial finding will be confirmed. However, no official announcement has established that Jorginho committed an anti-doping violation.
The former Arsenal star joined Flamengo in the summer of 2025, bringing valuable experience to the Brazilian side after previously playing for several prominent European clubs.
Brazilian journalist Thiago Asmar has reportedly suggested that the forthcoming counter-analysis will be crucial in determining how the case proceeds. If the second examination confirms the initial result, the relevant authorities could initiate disciplinary proceedings against the midfielder.
Despite the reports, Jorginho has not received any officially confirmed suspension, meaning his eligibility to play competitive football has not formally been withdrawn over the allegations.
Flamengo, meanwhile, have reportedly stated that they have yet to receive official communication regarding any potential doping offence involving their experienced midfielder.
Jorginho recently featured in Flamengo's Copa Libertadores semi-final encounter against Estudiantes, where he reportedly missed a penalty during the match.
Further reports suggest that the Italian international could face a suspension ranging from six months to two years if a violation is eventually proven. However, the length of any potential punishment would depend on the substance involved, the applicable anti-doping regulations and the outcome of the disciplinary process.
Such a development could significantly affect Flamengo, particularly as manager Leonardo Jardim continues working to improve the team's performances and maintain its competitiveness in domestic and continental competitions.
A lengthy absence for Jorginho would leave the coaching staff with the difficult task of adjusting their midfield options and potentially revising their tactical approach to compensate for the loss of his experience.
For the midfielder, the uncertainty surrounding the allegations comes at a crucial point in his career, following years of establishing himself as a respected figure in European and international football.
Attention is now focused on the scheduled October 27 examination, which could provide greater clarity regarding the reported adverse finding.
Until the relevant authorities confirm the results and issue an official disciplinary decision, the allegations remain unresolved. Jorginho should therefore not be regarded as guilty of an anti-doping violation unless the case is established through the appropriate process.