Arsenal appear to have dropped a hint over the future of a divisive player in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
This summer, Arsenal have strengthened their squad by signing Riccardo Calafiori, following their second-place finish in the Premier League last season.
Calafiori adds depth to an Arsenal defense that is considered among the top in global football.
He shone as a center-back for Italy during Euro 2024 and is also capable of playing as a left-back.
The Ukraine international made 20 starts in the 2023/24 season, though Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jakub Kiwior were occasionally chosen ahead of him.
Despite this, Arsenal seem to have reaffirmed his long-term position at the club.
Zinchenko has changed his shirt number from 35 to 17, which became available after Cedric Soares’ departure.
The 27-year-old shared with Arsenal’s official website: “The number 17 is very special to me. It was the number I wore as a young player, and I’ve always asked to wear 17 when playing for my country.”
Since 17 became available after Cedric’s departure, I requested the change, and I appreciate the club’s support in this.
“It’s also important to mention that if anyone has purchased this season’s new shirt with my name and number 35 on it directly from the club, they can exchange it for the new number.”
Arsenal might now consider selling Kiwior, who has attracted interest from Serie A giants Inter Milan and Juventus.
Arteta aims to further strengthen his squad to close the gap on Manchester City, who have secured four consecutive league titles.
He told ESPN last month: “We are aiming to enhance every possible area.”
“There are areas that we need to improve, and we will try to address them. However, the market is challenging.”
“We have been very proactive and determined, with a clear idea of what we want to achieve. It will ultimately depend on reaching the right agreements at the right time.”
