Arsenal star Oleksandr Zinchenko is surprising one of his former coaches with his passionate celebrations this season.
Zinchenko has become a hugely popular figure at Arsenal since completing his summer move from Manchester City.
Gary Neville’s claim that Zinchenko is ‘not a leader’ has been completely debunked this season with the Ukrainian proving to be a driving force.
Zinchenko’s mentality has been absolutely vital to Arsenal’s push for the Premier League title this season.
Mikel Arteta’s decision to reunite with Zinchenko at Arsenal – having worked together at Manchester City – has really paid off.
Fans absolutely love the passion and leadership Zinchenko has shown, but he has caused some raised eyebrows elsewhere.
Mystery coach thinks Zinchenko’s Arsenal celebrations barely seem real
The Athletic have spoken to one of Zinchenko’s former coaches, who preferred not to be named given the title fight between City and Arsenal.
The mystery coach suggested that Zinchenko is so passionate about Arsenal with his celebrations and interactions with fans that it ‘can’t be real’ given how short of a spell he has had in North London.
Yet the coach believes Zinchenko has felt so important at Arsenal ever since joining that maybe he really does feel that strongly about the Gunners.
“He (Zinchenko) is so involved and so immersed in Arsenal,” said the unnamed coach. “How he celebrates goals, how he hugs the fans. Sometimes I think, ‘Jesus, this guy has been there only five months, that can’t be real’. But at the same time, I see a more mature footballer in him.”
“His switch to Arsenal was not only a change of clubs but a change of role. In Manchester, he was more of a fringe player. At Arsenal, you get the feeling he knew he was important since minute one,” he added.
Arsenal take on Manchester City in the Premier League tonight in an absolutely pivotal clash.
The Gunners can take a big leap towards the title with a win, and really need to respond after dropping five points in the last two games.
Zinchenko will be absolutely vital and he would no doubt love to have big celebrations with Gunners players and fans tonight.
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