Arsenal fans were blown away by one player’s performance early on against Ipswich Town.
The contest started as expected for a game between second in the table and 18th, as Arsenal dominated from the kick-off.
In the first eight minutes at Portman Road, Arsenal recorded 95% of possession, toying with Ipswich, who are almost on their way back to the Championship.
After Arsenal’s win over Real Madrid in midweek, it was expected that Mikel Arteta would make some alterations to his starting XI, which he did, making three changes.
Ben White and Leandro Trossard came into the starting lineup, as did Oleksandr Zinchenko, making only his fourth start of the Premier League season.
Arsenal fans applaud Oleksandr Zinchenko vs Ipswich
As Myles Lewis-Skelly dropped to the bench, Zinchenko started at left-back and made his presence known early on.
The Ukrainian caught the eye of fans as he showed his quality on the ball at Portman Road, playing a part in Arsenal’s opening goal courtesy of Trossard.
Instead of rushing to social media to praise the Belgian, Arsenal fans were fixated on Zinchenko’s performance, sending applause the defender’s way.
“If Zinchenko knew how to defend, he’d be a world beater. Fantastic technique and IQ to keep the ball moving,” one Arsenal fan said on X.
Others joined the praise, as his quality in the inverted role left many stunned.
“Zinchenko in midfield,” a supporter said, as another lauded the Ukraine international’s ability to make Arsenal play more fluidly.
“I love Zinchenko man. Makes our attack look much more fluid, literally every time he plays.”
Trossard’s goal was assisted by Martin Odegaard, who was recognised alongside Zinchenko by fans.
“Zinchenko and Odegaard are playing so good today,” one fan posted.
Another insisted that Arsenal miss Zinchenko when he’s not playing.
“We miss Zinchenko. That man is always releasing the ball so early. Good weapon against low block teams.”
The 28-year-old was called ‘utterly superb’ by another fan, while others began reminiscing about the former Manchester City star’s debut campaign in red and white.
“Zinchenko is just so damn good on the ball. Massive 22/23 throwback.”
Though Zinchenko has been criticised during his time at Arsenal, the four-time Premier League winner’s quality can’t be argued, as one fan made clear.
“On the ball there aren’t many better footballers than Zinchenko. Played a key role in that goal.”
Zinchenko could leave Arsenal in the summer
Having made limited appearances this season, it’s been speculated that this will be Zinchenko’s final year at Arsenal.
The Ukrainian’s contract at the Emirates ends next summer, giving the Gunners a last chance to cash in on him before he becomes a free agent.
Borussia Dortmund are interested in Zinchenko, who is a sporadically used member of Arteta’s squad, with several players above him in the pecking order.
Where the Premier League star ends up is yet to be seen, however, it’s a joy to watch him in form in the meantime.
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