Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko has reached out to supporters after being heavily criticized for his role in Liverpool’s late equalizer during their 2-2 draw at Anfield on Sunday. The Ukraine international’s performance was scrutinized after he was nutmegged by Trent Alexander-Arnold, leading to Roberto Firmino’s 87th-minute goal.
The equalizer dampened Arsenal’s title hopes, as they are now six points ahead of Zinchenko’s former team, Manchester City, with just eight games remaining in the season. Following Firmino’s goal, Zinchenko was replaced by Kieran Tierney, and he was visibly upset on the bench. Reports suggest the player felt responsible for Arsenal dropping crucial points in the title race.
Zinchenko received criticism from former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, who expressed his disappointment in the player’s lack of aggression and intensity. Carragher’s fellow Sky Sports pundit Roy Keane echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that modern full-backs should take more pride in defending.
In response to the criticism and to reassure fans, Zinchenko took to Instagram, posting: “Not the best day at the office but we go again. Thanks for support praise emoji together until the very end #COYG.”
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, now faces a decision for their upcoming match against West Ham. Arteta must choose between starting Tierney or giving Zinchenko the opportunity to redeem himself in defense. As the season reaches its final stretch, the choice may have significant implications for the club’s title aspirations.