Ajax have completed the permanent signing of Oleksandr Zinchenko from Arsenal, less than six months before his contract in north London was due to expire.
The defender, who had been on loan at Nottingham Forest, was originally tipped to join the Dutch side on a second loan, with a view to a free transfer in the summer, but Ajax have opted to move decisively and secure his signature outright.
The Ukraine international returns to the Netherlands, having spent the 2016/17 season on loan at PSV Eindhoven from Manchester City. While his departure from the Premier League brings an end to an era – Zinchenko never finished outside the top two during his eight-and-a-half years in England – a move to the Eredivisie looks a sensible fit for a player who has struggled with injuries in recent seasons.
Zinchenko arrived at Arsenal alongside Gabriel Jesus in 2022, and the pair made an immediate impact, helping transform the Gunners into genuine title challengers. However, within a couple of years, Mikel Arteta had begun to move on, with the Ukrainian slipping behind Riccardo Calafiori, Myles Lewis-Skelly and summer arrival Piero Hincapie in the left-back pecking order.
Given his experience playing in midfield for his country, it was always something of a surprise that Zinchenko didn’t see more minutes further up the pitch in Arsenal colours. Perhaps Ajax will offer him that freedom.
Either way, regular game time is the priority after a torrid five months at the City Ground, particularly with Ukraine facing a crucial World Cup play-off against Sweden in March.
It’s a shame the way things eventually tailed off at Arsenal. For a period, Zinchenko burned bright and was adored by the fans. If the foundations he helped lay ultimately deliver silverware, he’ll be remembered fondly.
In a parting message to Arsenal fans and colleagues, he wrote on Instagram:
To the Gunners.
I will never forget the way you welcomed me.
Still remember the goosebumps I got at the first game after hearing your “Always beliiiiiieeeve”. 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.