Arsenal star Oleksandr Zinchenko may have just shown that he still has a future at the club amid links with a possible exit this summer.
The defender signed from Manchester City in 2022, helping to transform Mikel Arteta’s team, taking them to the next level.
With Zinchenko’s skillset to invert into midfield, Arsenal underwent some tactical changes with the full-backs and midfield structure.
While the 28-year-old was key in making the Gunners competitive at the top level, his influence on the team has dwindled since.
A lack of game time mixed with injuries has made it tough for Zinchenko, who now faces a transfer exit from Arsenal.
As that possibility emerges, the defender may have proved Arteta is very wrong about him and given himself a lifeline at the club as a result.
Oleksandr Zinchenko proves Mikel Arteta wrong over Arsenal position for Ukraine again
The most notable aspect of Zinchenko’s game has been his ability to tuck into midfield from his starting left-back position.
While that offers Arsenal some quality in the central ranks, there are several issues with the experienced star in that role.
Discounting his injury troubles, Zinchenko has often struggled when moving back into a wider area to help defend.
With the arrival of Myles Lewis-Skelly and Riccardo Calafiori at Arsenal, along with a contract that expires in 2026, it’s a role that may be tough to regain.
However, Zinchenko has proven yet again on international duty that he is better suited to starting in midfield.
Within just minutes of getting onto the pitch in Ukraine’s clash with New Zealand, the Arsenal star wandered into the box and unleashed an almighty strike to win his nation the match.
It’s the type of role Arteta hasn’t used him in much, but it may be something that gives him a lifeline at the Emirates Stadium, especially if one of his teammates leaves.
Thomas Partey exit could open up Oleksandr Zinchenko chance at Arsenal
While Zinchenko faces an uncertain future at Arsenal, there is still one year remaining on his deal that could see him compete for a position.
That isn’t the same luxury afforded to Thomas Partey, who has just weeks remaining on his contract at the club.
With his future hanging in the balance, any exit could see the Gunners enter the market for another midfield option.
That may not be necessary, however, due to proof from Zinchenko himself that he is capable of playing in the central ranks.
Whether it’s in a deeper role or pushing further up, the Ukrainian international may well have given himself a lifeline at the club if there is an exit on the cards for Partey.
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