Oleksandr Zinchenko officially joins Arsenal

DBasia.news – Arsenal continue to be active in the transfer market this summer in order to strengthen the squad in the 2022-2023 season. After bringing in Marquinhos, Matt Turner, Fabio Vieira, and Gabriel Jesus, this time the Gunners managed to bring in another new player, Oleksandr Zinchenko, as Arsenal’s fifth official signing.

“Oleksandr Zinchenko has joined us on a long-term contract from Manchester City,” read a statement on Arsenal’s official website.

“The 25-year-old brings great experience in the Premier League and international football to our squad, having made 128 appearances for Manchester City and playing 52 times for his country Ukraine.”

It is not explained in detail on the club’s official website and the duration of his contract, but according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal paid around £30 million plus a bonus of two million to buy Zinchenko, he is also on a four-year contract.

One of the advantages of the former Ufa player is the ability to play in many positions (versatile) from attacking midfielder, left wing-back, and left-back.

“We are very happy that Alex has joined us. He is a player I personally know very well and have continued to follow after my time at Manchester City. Alex is a high quality player who will give us options and a versatile player,” said Mikel Arteta of Zinchenko.

“It’s not just about the positions he can play but also, the versatility he will give us in attack and defence. Alex is a person with great human qualities and character and I’m delighted that everyone has put in a great effort to bring Alex in. to the club.”

Arsenal’s success in recruiting Jesus and Zinchenko from Man City cannot be separated from Arteta’s big role. The Arsenal manager had three years as assistant coach Pep Guardiola at Man City.

Zinchenko also admitted that he had long admired and liked Arsenal during the young Thierry Henry and Cesc Fabregas. In short, joining Arsenal was a dream come true for him.

“First of all I want to say this is a childhood dream come true, because I was a big fan (Arsenal) when I was a kid,” said Zinchenko.

“Ever since young Thierry Henry and Cesc Fabregas played here, I just enjoyed watching the game, Arsenal at that time. And obviously I’m starting to love this club, so I’m really excited and I can’t wait to play for this amazing club.”

Like Jesus, Zinchenko can bring the great experience of his success at Man City to Arsenal. Zinchenko has won four Premier League titles and was nominated for Ukrainian Player of the Year.

“I’m ready for another challenge. I’m not here just to waste my time and Arsenal’s time because the club is always ahead of everyone,” added Zinchenko.

“I’m here to achieve great things and I hope we can win some titles, and I hope we will fight for every title that we will be involved in.”

“Even from last season, I watched Arsenal games and I could smell it was coming, you know? This team is developing so fast and I think this is the time. It’s time to do our best and achieve something big,” concluded Zinchenko.