Relationships are imperative in a professional football squad, and as Arsenal gradually remove the players who they feel might be disruptive from their squad, it is important to replace them with professionals who will get along with the other squad members and build strong relationships at the club.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta and Technical Director Edu believe that it is better to pay off disruptive and underperforming players than to keep them around the squad.
Embed from Getty ImagesThey are of the opinion that bad influences should be shown the door despite the cost, and players coming in should be investments as well as positive personalities that improve the squad.
This saw the end of Aubamayang and Ozil, who, whilst being absolutely amazing players on their day, sometimes appeared unfocused and distracted by off-field disciplinary issues.
Embed from Getty ImagesWhen Arsenal signed Oleksandr Zinchenko I was somewhat underwhelmed until I thought more about the reason behind the singing.
Sure, it could be argued that over £30m for a player who wasn’t a regular first-choice pick for Pep Guardiola at Manchester City could be seen as too big a fee. However, when you look at the player’s attitude, versatility and popularity with his fellow professionals, you can see that he looks set to be a big hit at Arsenal.
His already harmonious relationship with former Man City teammate Gabriel Jesus (who has made an amazing start to his Arsenal career during pre-season) is a good example of an already established positive pairing.
When asked about his relationship with Jesus, Oleksandr Zinchenko said: “We are close to each other, and I love him so much.
Embed from Getty Images“He’s my big friend, and I would like to say that he was also involved in the discussions (to move to Arsenal).
“He told me a lot of good things about this amazing club and the about this atmosphere, the guys and everyone here, so I’m really impressed and so excited.
Zinchenko added: “I’m always in touch with him even when he was at City and when he left, so I was always speaking with him.”
I think we could see Zinchenko shine should he become a regular starter for The Gunners. He obviously has the talent, the professionalism and the drive to make an impact. Welcome to Arsenal Zincy.