Nottingham Forest are already seeking a replacement for Oleksandr Zinchenko, mere months after signing the defender on loan from Arsenal, according to reports.
A Turbulent Start at the City Ground
The Ukrainian international, 29, joined Forest on a dramatic deadline day loan last summer after his permanent move away from the Emirates Stadium collapsed. His arrival was swiftly followed by managerial chaos, however, as the man who signed him, Nuno Espirito Santo, was sacked just a week later.
Under successor Ange Postecoglou, Zinchenko started five of the Australian's eight matches in charge before Postecoglou was himself brutally dismissed in October. The full-back has not featured in the Premier League since, making only two Europa League appearances under current boss Sean Dyche.
Falling Down the Pecking Order
While a groin injury sidelined him for a month, Zinchenko has been available for Forest's last four league games. He was, however, left out of the matchday squad for three of those fixtures. The Telegraph now reports that securing a new left-back is a top priority for the club in the upcoming January transfer window.
This development places further doubt on Zinchenko's prospects. With Neco Williams currently excelling in the position, the Arsenal loanee faces a fierce battle for any game time. His loan deal contains no option or obligation to buy, nor a recall clause for Arsenal, making an early return to North London highly improbable.
An Uncertain Future for the Premier League Champion
Zinchenko's contract with Arsenal expires in the summer of 2026, leaving the four-time Premier League champion with Manchester City in a state of significant uncertainty. Despite his on-pitch struggles, the player remains publicly positive about his time at the City Ground.
Speaking ahead of Monday's match against Fulham, he stated: 'I feel amazing [at Forest]. It is a big club with amazing people around. I must use this opportunity to say a massive thanks to all the fans for the warm welcome. I really feel I need to give much more to the club.'
On his future, he added: 'I don't know yet, we'll see. We just need to go step by step and work hard.'
The team's form has improved under Dyche, with Forest progressing in the Europa League and winning four of their last six Premier League games, though they remain in 17th place. Zinchenko acknowledged the importance of momentum, saying: 'It is always better when you have results. Every single time we get some points, we are so excited for the next one.'
