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Oleksandr Zinchenko's Resurgence: From Nottingham Forest Nightmare to Ajax Adventure

Arsenal has sanctioned a fresh loan switch for Oleksandr Zinchenko, offering him a route out of his struggles at Nottingham Forest. Reports suggest that the Ukrainian star will join Eredivisie giants Ajax, bringing hope for a fresh start and a return to form.

Oleksandr Zinchenko's Resurgence: From Nottingham Forest Nightmare to Ajax Adventure

Oleksandr Zinchenko is being offered a route out of his Nottingham Forest nightmare, with Arsenal sanctioning a fresh loan switch for the Ukraine international. He moved to the City Ground in the summer of 2025, but has struggled for form under three different managers. It is now being reported that the Premier League title-winning ex-Manchester City star will link up with Eredivisie giants Ajax.Dutch media outlet De Telegraaf reports that “Ajax has reached an agreement with Arsenal on Zinchenko's loan for the remainder of the season, subject to a few details” being ironed out. A fresh start should do the versatile 29-year-old good.He also boasts experience of life in the Netherlands from a loan spell at PSV in 2016-17. Zinchenko went on to make 128 appearances for Premier League heavyweights City, helping them to four English top-flight crowns.Arsenal bought into his experience during the summer of 2022, but a tumble down the pecking order was taken at Emirates Stadium. After 10 largely forgettable appearances for Forest, another six-month loan agreement is being signed off.Ajax are said to be “in contact with Jorge Mendes, the player's agent” while “the deal between the clubs is being handled by Nathan van Kooperen, the Dutch agent for the Muy Manero agency”.Ajax want to add greater guile to their ranks and believe that Zinchenko could prove to be a shrewd long-term addition, as he will become a free agent in the summer when reaching the end of his contract at Arsenal. He is capable of operating at left-back or as No.6 in midfield, and those are two berths that Ajax are eager to reinforce.Zinchenko said of his best position when linking up with Forest: “I used to be asked what position is my best, but to be honest I’m ready to help my team wherever I can and wherever I’m needed, and I will always try to give my best.“I want to make an impact on the pitch but also off it. It’s important to be part of the team and help the young players as someone with that experience already. Then we can push each other to achieve big things.”He added on joining the Reds under Nuno Espirito Santo, with managerial reins at the City Ground being passed from Ange Postecoglou to Sean Dyche since then: “It’s an amazing opportunity. I want to help the team achieve its goals and show myself that I can do good things on the pitch. I remember the day when this opportunity came about; I was so happy and excited, to be honest.”Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!Things have not played out as planned, with Forest continuing to favour Wales international Neco Williams at left-back - despite the former Liverpool defender being naturally right footed.Dyche confirmed ahead of a meeting with Arsenal in the Premier League that Forest were prepared to let Zinchenko move on in the winter transfer window. He said: “We’ve spoken to the player, made him clear on his situation. He’s aware of that, so we’ll see what happens.“He’s played a couple of games, but hasn’t featured in others. He’s been injured. That hasn’t been helpful to him or to us. I’ve just been open with him, really. It’s like I say, I’m open with all players. “But I think when you’ve done as much as he has in the game, it’s more of a conversation. Not demanding anything other than just telling him the truth, as I see it. And that’s how much he can figure out, how much game time he’s going to get at this time.”Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingAjax have slipped out of another title race in the Eredivisie this season, as they sit third in the table - 18 points adrift of runaway leaders PSV. Zinchenko will be acquired with one eye on the future, with his skillset set to enjoy a warmer embrace amid the canals of Amsterdam than it received on the banks of the River Trent in Nottingham.

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A New Chapter Begins

Oleksandr Zinchenko, the Premier League title-winning ex-Manchester City star, is set to embark on a new chapter in his career as he prepares to leave Nottingham Forest behind. After facing challenges under different managers at the City Ground, a loan move to Ajax offers him the opportunity for redemption and success.

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A Return to Familiar Ground

Having previously experienced Dutch football during a loan spell at PSV, Zinchenko's move to Ajax will see him reunite with the Eredivisie, a league where his talents can truly shine. His versatility and experience make him a valuable asset for Ajax as they seek to strengthen their squad.

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Versatility and Experience

Zinchenko's ability to play at left-back or as a midfielder provides Ajax with much-needed flexibility and depth in key positions. His willingness to contribute wherever needed, combined with his leadership qualities, will undoubtedly make him a valuable addition to the squad.

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A Bright Future Ahead

As Zinchenko approaches the end of his contract at Arsenal, his move to Ajax marks a new beginning full of promise and potential. With the ambition to make an impact both on and off the pitch, Zinchenko is determined to help Ajax achieve success and inspire those around him.

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A Turning Point

While Zinchenko's time at Nottingham Forest may not have gone according to plan, his move to Ajax represents a turning point in his career. With the support of his new club and the opportunity to showcase his skills in a new environment, Zinchenko is on the cusp of a bright future.

Published on Jan 18, 2026