Oleksandr Zinchenko was given the captain’s armband for Arsenal’s Premier League victory over Leicester on Saturday, and the former Manchester City star expressed his appreciation for the gesture.
Martin Odegaard had a key role in the decision, coming to Arteta the day before the match to suggest the move as a show of solidarity for the one-year anniversary of Russia invading Ukraine.
The move highlights the togetherness of the Arsenal squad and the type of personalities that they have in the dressing room, with the players supporting each other both on and off the field.
Arsenal’s Premier League victory over Leicester City at the weekend was made even more special as Oleksandr Zinchenko was given the honour of being the team’s captain for the day.
The 24-year-old Ukrainian spoke of his gratitude after the match and pointed to the suggestion of his teammate Martin Odegaard as the reason behind the decision.
Odegaard had approached Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta the day before the match to make the suggestion as a tribute to the one year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This signalled unity among the Arsenal squad and across their dressing room, and it was a fitting way to honour Zinchenko, given his nationality and background.
Zinchenko has also demonstrated impressive leadership qualities throughout his time at Arsenal and has already become a key part of the team dynamic. In doing so, he has set a fantastic example of team spirit and on-field camaraderie that has been perfectly captured by the captaincy gesture.
Arsenal’s gesture to appoint Zinchenko as captain was an admirable feat of loyalty, and one that reflects the togetherness and resilience of the team. In a period where unity has been hard to come by, this is an inspiring story of solidarity, and one that will serve as a reminder for their players for years to come.
