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Fans were impressed with Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko's performance in the Emirates Cup final against Lyon on Sunday, August 11. The match ended in a 2-0 win for the Gunners at their home ground, Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal opened their scoring with French center-back William Saliba's goal from an assist by midfielder Declan Rice just nine minutes into the clash. Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhães doubled the Gunners' lead from another assist by the 25-year-old English midfielder in the 27th minute. Zinchenko was included in the starting XI and subbed for Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori in the 62nd minute.
Fans took to social media, sharing their opinions on Oleksandr Zinchenko's performance in the final. While some fans heaped praise on the Ukrainian defender, some wanted him to be named the Player of the Match. Here are some of the reactions on X:
"He’s starting to get his confidence back"
"Where is Zinchenko? He was POTM for me"
"Zinchenko has been phenomenal! His impact on the game has been immense. A strong case for Man of the Match! 🏆," chimed in another fan.
"Zinchenko has been a revelation. His composure on the ball, ability to link play, and defensive contributions have been top-notch."
"Oleksander Zinchenko. When it comes to football, no one in this world can make me hate you.🫶🏼"
"Won’t like to admit it but Zinchenko has warranted a start against Wolves, he’s been great these last two games."
While another wrote:
"Another statement pre-season performance by Oleksandr Zinchenko, so far. A lot of people have forgotten how important he can be to this team. You’d assume Calafiori’s arrival has provided an extra motivation."
Zinchenko, who joined Arsenal in 2022, has recorded two goals and four assists in 68 appearances for the Gunners. His contract with the Premier League giants is valid until June 30, 2026.
Mikel Arteta provides injury updates on two Arsenal defenders
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has provided an update on defenders Jurrien Timber and Takehiro Tomiyasu's fitness after the Gunners' win against Lyon. The 22-year-old Dutchman, who missed nearly the entirety of the 2023-24 season due to an ACL injury, has suffered a setback in his recovery.
Jurrien Timber is facing a foot issue, which is delaying his return to the pitch. The Spanish head coach mentioned that Timber is doing some individual training and is expected to return to group action next week. Arteta said (via Sam Dean on X):
"It is fine. He has been doing some individual work. We expect him to be ready to train with the group next week."
Speaking about Tomiyasu, who was not present for the entire pre-season tour in the United States, Arteta cast doubt over the Japanese star's return to action, saying (via Sam Dean on X):
"It will take weeks on that one, unfortunately. He's going to have to be patient."
Arsenal are pitted against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the first fixture of the 2024-25 Premier League on August 17 at Emirates Stadium.
