Arsenal Fans Have Had Enough of Zinchenko’s Defensive Struggles
The Gunners were handed a 2-1 defeat by Liverpool in their pre-season friendly, and it was a performance that has left many fans questioning the role of one player in particular: Oleksandr Zinchenko.
The Ukrainian left-back has always been a divisive figure among Arsenal fans, with some praising his attacking prowess, while others have criticized his defensive vulnerabilities. And on Wednesday, it was clear that Zinchenko’s struggles in the defensive department are a major concern.
Mo Salah breezed past Zinchenko on his way to giving Liverpool the lead, and it was a moment that perfectly encapsulated the 27-year-old’s issues. "I’m looking forward to having a left-back with a defensive capability. Zinchenko at left-back is so dated," one fan wrote on social media.
The stats don’t lie either. In the 2022-23 Premier League season, Zinchenko’s defensive skills were called into question, with many fans calling for him to be replaced. And on Wednesday, it was clear that the issue hasn’t been addressed.
Zinchenko’s slow reaction time and lack of defensive awareness were major issues throughout the game. He was beaten for pace by Salah, and his failure to track back and provide cover for his teammates left them exposed.
But it’s not just the fans who are concerned. Kai Havertz, who scored Arsenal’s consolation goal, has also spoken about the need for improvement in the defensive department. "We need to work on our defending, we can’t keep giving away goals like that," he said.
So, what’s the solution? Arsenal fans are crying out for a left-back with defensive solidity, and it’s clear that Zinchenko isn’t the answer. Whether it’s a new signing or a re-shuffle of the existing squad, something needs to change if the Gunners are to improve their defensive record.
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