Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko has given his verdict on the potential of Mykhailo Mudryk.
Arsenal and Chelsea battled for the signature of Mykhailo Mudryk in January, with the Blues eventually securing a deal worth £88.5 million for the services of the Ukrainian youngster.
However, Mudryk has so far struggled to make an impact and justify his price tag at Stamford Bridge. Yet, his international teammate, Oleksandr Zinchenko, insists that the 22-year-old has what it takes to be a star in the Premier League.
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s FIVE, Zinchenko was asked how good he believes Mudryk can yet become. The 26-year-old defender said, “honestly, the sky is the limit. The quality he has: incredible.”
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Despite having so much raw ability and promise, Mudryk has looked timid so far at Chelsea. In 17 Premier League appearances since his arrival in west London he is yet to score his first goal for the club. In total, in all competitions, the winger has managed just two assists in 19 outings.
Zinchenko is adamant that Mudryk will still come good. He has stated, “the thing is, guys, I know it’s a price tag, pressure, media. I used to speak with him a lot…he came from a different league. Ukrainian league…He came straight away to Chelsea…It takes time…but his quality, so good.”
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Mudryk missed out on easier start at Arsenal
If Mudryk is able to kick on and fulfil his potential for Chelsea then Arsenal will bitterly regret missing out on his signature. Mikel Arteta made the player his top target in the winter transfer window, and was desperate to bring him to the Emirates Stadium. After being beaten to Mudryk, Arsenal pivoted to another target and signed Leandro Trossard. So far, at least, that looks to have been a wise move.
There is an argument that Mudryk would have been better off joining Arsenal instead of Chelsea. He certainly expressed a keen interest in playing for the Gunners, and the north London outfit offered a more settled and stable environment at the time.
Chelsea’s bloated squad, managerial changes, and new ownership all made it a difficult place to go and hit the ground running, as evidenced by the fact they finished 12th in the Premier League last season.