Arsenal have hinted at how Oleksandr Zinchenko’s future may play out by handing the Ukrainian a new squad number. The versatile defender will wear the No 17 after making a request to wear the digits vacated by Cedric Soares.
Zinchenko previously wore No 35 but asked for a change after the departure of right-back Soares. His new number is particularly special to the 27-year-old, who wears 17 for Ukraine.
He told Arsenal's website: "It was the number I wore as a young player, and I've always requested to wear 17 when playing for my country.
"With 17 being free since Cedric left, I asked if I could change, and thanks to everyone at the club for supporting me."
The change suggests Zinchenko is very much part of Mikel Arteta's plans. There had been suggestion that the former Manchester City player might depart following the signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.
Calafiori's arrival provides Zinchenko with stronger competition at left-back. The Italian can also play at centre-back, but spent much of his time in Serie A inverting into midfield - the role Zinchenko has performed since he signed for Arsenal in 2022.
Zinchenko's inconsistency prompted Arsenal to sign another player who can play in his position. Jakub Kiwior also finds himself with a quandary having made most of his appearances last season at left-back. It was reported that the Poland international had initially been offered to Bologna to sweeten a deal for Calafiori.
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