Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko has admitted uncertainty over his future at the club after slipping down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta. The Ukrainian international, who played a key role in Arsenal’s title challenge last season, has seen his game time decrease as Arteta now prefers Riccardo Calafiori and young talent Myles Lewis-Skelly in the left-back position.
With his long-term status at the club in question, Zinchenko was asked whether he sees himself remaining at Arsenal beyond this season. His response reflected the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his role via [The Standard](https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arsenal-fc-zinchenko-unsure-over-future-b1216412.html).
_“I don’t know yet, to be honest,”_ he told _Standard Sport_. _“If I would know, I could tell \[you\]. It’s still a long way to go until the end of the season.”_
### **A Fall from First Choice**
Zinchenko’s reduced playing time has been noticeable in recent months. While he was a key figure in Arteta’s system when he arrived from Manchester City in 2022, injuries and defensive inconsistencies have seen him lose his guaranteed starting spot.
Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori, signed last summer, has emerged as a reliable option at left-back due to his defensive stability and ability to contribute in buildup play. Meanwhile, academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly has impressed Arteta with his versatility and dynamism, further limiting Zinchenko’s opportunities.
Despite the competition, Zinchenko remains focused on the present rather than his future.
_“I think we are at the stage and the most interesting period of the season, where every single game is a final and you never know what is going to happen in football,”_ he added.
### **Could Zinchenko Leave Arsenal?**
At 27, Zinchenko is at a crossroads in his career. He remains a valuable asset due to his technical ability, leadership, and experience, but his defensive vulnerabilities have made him a less preferred option in high-stakes matches. If his game time continues to diminish, a summer exit could be on the cards, especially with Arsenal expected to reinforce their squad ahead of another title push next season.
A potential departure would likely attract interest from several European clubs. Zinchenko’s ability to operate both as a left-back and in midfield makes him an appealing option for teams looking for a technically gifted, attack-minded defender.
### **A Crucial End to the Season**
With Arsenal still fighting in both the Premier League title race and the UEFA Champions League, Zinchenko could yet play a key role before the campaign ends. Injuries or tactical adjustments could see him called upon in crucial fixtures, and a strong finish to the season might reshape Arteta’s thinking about his future.
For now, Zinchenko remains committed to Arsenal’s current objectives. Whether he remains in North London beyond this season, however, remains uncertain.