Ajax give free‑agent Arsenal Zinchenko rehab chance as future hangs

Oleksandr Zinchenko, the 29‑year‑old former Arsenal defender, has returned to Ajax’s training ground as a free agent while he continues to rehabilitate a serious knee injury. The Dutch club confirmed the Ukrainian international rejoined the first‑team squad after his contract expired at the end of last season.

Zinchenko’s deal with Ajax ended on 30 June, leaving him without a formal playing contract. Nevertheless, the club has permitted him to use its facilities to complete his recovery, meaning he can train with the squad but has not yet signed a new deal.

Arsenal tenure and statistics

The Ukrainian left Arsenal in February 2026 after six seasons with the Premier League side. He arrived from Manchester City in 2019 and recorded 91 appearances, three goals and five assists, operating both as a left‑back and a midfielder.

During the 2025/26 campaign Zinchenko struggled for minutes while on loan at Nottingham Forest, a spell that was cut short. He then moved to the Netherlands on a short‑term contract with Ajax, but his debut season was halted by a serious knee problem in his second match against Fortuna Sittard.

Rehab at Ajax and future options

Ajax confirmed on social media that Zinchenko has resumed training with the first‑team squad at De Toekomst, the club’s training complex. The arrangement is not a formal playing contract, and the club has not disclosed any immediate offer, leaving his future uncertain.

Zinchenko expressed gratitude, saying, “I would like to say a massive thank you to Jordi Cruijff, coach Michel Sánchez and everyone at Ajax for giving me the opportunity to complete my rehabilitation and get back on track.” He added that the warm welcome and support “means a lot to me.” Former defender Timo Letschert, speaking on a transfer podcast, called the situation “very interesting” and suggested a performance‑based contract could be an option, provided Ajax manages the knee risk carefully.

It remains to be seen whether Ajax will offer a new contract once Zinchenko regains full fitness. For now, the priority is his rehabilitation and a possible return to competitive football.