Oleksandr Zinchenko has revealed how being sidelined at Arsenal has left him battling a deep feeling of rejection.
Zinchenko : From key man to the sidelines at Arsenal
Oleksandr Zinchenko was one of key players at Emirates since joining in 2022. His energy, ball control, and positive influence to lead the players can put him as one of the ‘trusted players’ in the squad very quickly.
But as we know in football, things often change very quickly. Last season, the defender suffered a calf injury early in his second season. That restricted his minutes and forcing Arteta to consider other players in his squad. In addition, Riccardo Calafiori and Myles Lewis-Skelly rose to the occasion. So, that just makes it more difficult for him.
In his autobiography Believe (as reported by The Athletic), he wrote “I was basically out of the starting XI altogether, bar a few isolated matches. In pure personal terms, it was easily the worst season I ever experienced as a professional.”
🚨 @gunnerblog:
Zinchenko on his unreleased autobiography:
“Let’s see what time will bring. Because I still want to play football. I want to enjoy the game and come back with a smile on my face in the evening.”
“A player who doesn’t play is nothing.” 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/Hh0nIowgyq
— Eduardo Hagn (@EduardoHagn) August 13, 2025
He admits it has not been easy as it still hurts to sit on the bench when fit and ready to go. Last season, he played just 789 minutes in all competitions and made only two league starts after Christmas. That is a big drop for someone who once bossed the position.
Staying professional amid uncertainty
Although it wasn’t easy for him; Zinchenko says he has done everything he can to help the team. He knows he has to stay professional. He’ll even admit he’s happy to be paid well, while not even playing. But there is an urge, to get back to enjoying it.
Arsenal have certainly shown a willingness to sell this summer. AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, Porto and Fulham are now moving in for him. Zinchenko is full of competitive drive. He would likely take a new challenge if the right opportunity comes up. He knows this is part of the game. There is no assurance at elite level football.
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