Arsenal News: Despite what some critics may think, the Gunners have had a successful season under Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners have returned to Europe, albeit not in the Champions League. They have developed a young team that has brought their severely divided supporters together. However, if their recruitment is weak this summer, they could quickly revert to a gloomy season.
Arsenal must avoid selling any of their elite players, such as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Magalhaes, while also acquiring some top transfer targets.
Oleksandr Zinchenko, who has been linked with a move to the Emirates, is one of their targets. During his stint as Pep Guardiola’s assistant, Arteta worked with the Manchester City star and is well aware of his abilities.
Arsenal News: Qualities of Zinchenko
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Under Guardiola’s coaching, Zinchenko has blossomed into a talented, passionate player. He’s also a nine-time major trophy winner at the Etihad Stadium, including four Premier League victories.
Zinchenko can also play a variety of positions on the field. He’s a natural offensive midfielder, but due to City’s lack of depth in that position, he’s typically forced to play left back under Guardiola. Few players at the top of the European game are as adaptable as he is.
Arteta is expected to use the Ukrainian in midfield. Kieran Tierney, the Gunners’ left-back, is already one of the best in the Premier League, but the Spaniard is concerned about his injury record.
On the final day of the season, Zinchenko’s importance to City’s success was demonstrated. With Guardiola’s team down Aston Villa by two goals, the substitute aided Rodri’s equaliser. They went on to win the Premier League for the fourth time in five years, 3-2.
When you consider the emotional burden he’s been under since Russia invaded his homeland of Ukraine in February, the 25-year-old’s performance is astounding.
What did Redknapp say?
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After the win over Villa, Sky Sports analyst Jamie Redknapp observed, “He [Zinchenko] made a major difference today – his positional awareness and moving forward. He’s been a fantastic club acquisition. It’s only right to take him on. What he’s done is truly amazing.”
Zinchenko has the experience and quality that Arteta requires to transform his burgeoning talent into a genuine threat. He’d be a fantastic addition for the Gunners. However, whether they can entice him away from Manchester remains a major question mark.
Under Guardiola, the utility player is promised trophies and is adored by City fans. Arteta, on the other hand, can provide him with regular football and the opportunity to play in a more advanced role. Zinchenko has never appeared in more than 20 Premier League games in a season.
Arsenal supporters are keen to return to the top of English football. However, in order to do so, the club must begin attracting players and refrain from being a selling club. This summer, Arteta must make a statement by signing a player like Zinchenko.
