Oleksandr Zinchenko left Arsenal on a permanent basis in the January transfer window by signing for Ajax, having spent the first half of the season on loan at Nottingham Forest
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - FEBRUARY 14: Headcoach Fred Grim of AFC Ajax hugs Oleksandr Zinchenko of AFC Ajax during the Dutch Eredivisie match between AFC Ajax and Fortuna Sittard at Johan Cruijff ArenA on February 14, 2026 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Hans van der Valk/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
Oleksandr Zinchenko has been dealt a huge blow(Image: Hans van der Valk/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
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Ajax have confirmed that Oleksandr Zinchenko will miss the rest of this season after he suffered a devastating knee injury on his home debut. The ex-Arsenal star came off just six minutes into Ajax's clash with Fortuna Sittard on Saturday.
Zinchenko only joined Ajax earlier this month for £1.3million, ending his three-and-a-half-year stay with Arsenal. The Ukrainian had spent the first half of the season on loan at Nottingham Forest but only made 10 appearances.
After making his debut for Ajax as a late substitute away to AZ Alkmaar, the 29-year-old was handed his first start against Sittard. With less than three minutes on the clock, Zinchenko went down after injuring his left knee and had to be helped off the pitch.
Ajax have now confirmed that their new signing will require surgery. In a statement issued on Monday, the Dutch club said: "Oleksandr Zinchenko has been ruled out for an extended period. The defender suffered a knee injury last weekend in the early stages of the home match with Fortuna Sittard at the Johan Cruijff ArenA.
"Examination at the hospital has shown that surgery is required. This will take place in the near future. The 29-year-old Ukraine international will then face a lengthy rehabilitation period, which means he will not play again this season."
The injury isn't just a blow to Ajax. Zinchenko will also miss Ukraine's World Cup play-off campaign next month and should his country progress, he'll likely miss the tournament.
There'll also have to be discussions regarding his future at Ajax. Zinchenko's contract runs until June, meaning that he'd need an extension to play for the club again.
He became surplus to requirements during his last couple of seasons with Arsenal, who he left Manchester City for in the summer of 2022. "To the Gunners," Zinchenko said upon his departure. "I will never forget the way you welcomed me. Still remember the goosebumps I got at the first game after hearing your 'Always beliiiiiieeeve'.
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - FEBRUARY 14: (L-R) Oleksandr Zinchenko of Ajax, Dimitris Limnios of Fortuna Sittard during the Dutch Eredivisie match between Ajax v Fortuna Sittard at the Johan Cruijff Arena on February 14, 2026 in Amsterdam Netherlands (Photo by Roy Lazet/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Oleksandr Zinchenko had only been on the pitch for three minutes (Image: Roy Lazet/Soccrates/Getty Images)
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"I couldn't even dream about it. From the deepest place in my heart I would like to say a massive thank you for everything that you have done for me and my family. To the coaching staff, thank you for the opportunity to be a small part of this amazing club.
"To the players, thank you for the priceless experience, fantastic memories and becoming friends for life. To all the staff, thank you for your help and for looking after me and my family.
"And of course to the fans, for love, support and criticism which we as a players need to accept and work even harder. I just want to wish you all the best and hope you achieve everything what ever you wish. Once a Gunner always a Gunner. Thank you. @arsenal [love heart emoji]."
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