Arsenal full-back Oleksandr Zincheko put in a much-criticised performance against Aston Villa at the weekend, in what may well be one of his last in a Gunners shirt
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal star Oleksandr Zinchenko has no future at the club, with the Gunners looking to part with him this summer.
That's according to one report following Arsenal's calamitous defeat to Aston Villa at the weekend, which took hopes of winning a first Premier League title in 20 years out of their hands. The Ukrainian was particularly poor in the second half for the Gunners in what was a rare start and came under staunch criticism on social media.
Jakub Kiwior has been preferred in recent weeks, with the Pole offering better defensive coverage – and now it seems as if Arsenal might look to replace Zinchenko altogether this summer.
Jakub Kiwior has replaced Zinchenko (Image credit: Getty Images)
The Athletic claims that Arsenal have not offered the 27-year-old a new deal, despite his contract winding down to its final two years.
Sporting director Edu Gaspar has been proactive in tying down key members of the squad at this stage in their deals – but with Arsenal looking to bring in a new left-back this summer, there are seemingly no plans for Zinchenko to extend his stay in north London beyond two years.
In FourFourTwo's view, moving on from the former Manchester City man is the sensible decision. Arsenal no longer rely on the Ukrainian for their buildup, with the system having moved on from his talents – and the benefits of his ability in possession no longer outweigh his defensive liabilities.
Arsenal pair Arteta and Edu aren't offering Zinchenko a new deal (Image credit: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
