Zinchenko Set for Ajax Lifeline After Forest Struggles
Oleksandr Zinchenko is on the brink of a fresh start after Arsenal agreed a loan move that will see the Ukraine international join Ajax for the remainder of the season, bringing an early end to his difficult spell at Nottingham Forest.
The 29-year-old has endured a frustrating campaign at the City Ground, managing just 10 appearances and struggling to establish himself under three different managers. With Forest prepared to cancel his loan, a deal has now been lined up that will send Zinchenko to Amsterdam as he looks to revive his career.
Ajax have moved swiftly to secure the versatile defender, with Dutch outlet De Telegraaf reporting that an agreement is already in place between the Eredivisie giants and Arsenal, pending minor details. Talks have involved the player’s representatives, with the Amsterdam club confident Zinchenko can add quality and experience to a squad in need of control and composure.
The move carries added significance given Zinchenko’s history in the Netherlands. He previously spent the 2016 to 17 season on loan at PSV, a spell that helped shape his development before he went on to make 128 appearances for Manchester City and win four Premier League titles. Arsenal signed him in 2022 for his pedigree and leadership, but his role diminished as competition increased at the Emirates.
Forest hoped his experience would stabilise their back line, yet Neco Williams remained first choice at left-back, limiting Zinchenko’s impact. Injuries and a lack of continuity compounded the problem, leading manager Sean Dyche to confirm the club were open to letting him leave during the winter window.
Ajax see opportunity where others have stalled. Sitting third in the Eredivisie and well adrift of leaders PSV, they are eager to add intelligence and flexibility to their squad. Zinchenko’s ability to operate both at left-back and in midfield aligns with areas the club are keen to strengthen, especially with an eye on next season.
The matchday rhythm of Dutch football should suit his strengths. Ajax value ball progression, positional awareness, and calm distribution from deep areas, all traits that defined Zinchenko at his best with City and during his early Arsenal days. The environment offers a platform to rebuild confidence away from Premier League intensity.
Key moments at Forest told the story of a move that never quite clicked. Limited starts, cautious tactical setups, and recurring fitness setbacks prevented Zinchenko from finding momentum. Dyche acknowledged as much, noting the need for honesty about his likely game time and the realities of the squad hierarchy.
Now the narrative shifts. Ajax are betting that familiarity with Dutch football and a clearer role will unlock the player they believe can still influence games at a high level. With his Arsenal contract expiring in the summer, the loan also serves as a proving ground for what comes next.
For Zinchenko, this move is less about escape and more about restoration. Amsterdam offers space, trust, and a style that rewards his footballing intelligence. If the loan delivers, it could mark the turning point of a career that briefly lost its direction but remains rich in experience and ambition.