Why Zinchenko won't play for Ukraine: Details emerge
Oleksandr Zinchenko (photo: Getty Images)
Nottingham defender Oleksandr Zinchenko will miss Ukraine's upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Iceland and Azerbaijan, according to TaToTake on Telegram.
Injury during Premier League game
On September 28, in a Premier League match against Sunderland (0:1), Zinchenko suffered an adductor muscle injury but played through the game with the knock.
Following a thorough medical examination, it was confirmed that the 28-year-old Ukrainian will be sidelined for Nottingham's upcoming fixtures, including the Europa League clash with Midtjylland and the league match against Newcastle.
Missing national team's games
Due to the injury, Zinchenko will also miss Ukraine's October World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
Serhiy Rebrov's side will face Iceland away on October 10 and Azerbaijan on October 13 in Poland, which serves as Ukraine's home venue.
After two rounds, Ukraine sits third in Group D with one point. France leads the group with six points, Iceland holds second with three points, and Azerbaijan is last with one point but a goal difference of 1:6.
Only the group winner qualifies directly for the World Cup. The team that finishes second will enter the playoffs, where four World Cup spots will be contested.
Zinchenko's season stats
So far this season, Zinchenko has made four appearances for Nottingham across all competitions, on loan from Arsenal. His absence could significantly impact Ukraine's defensive play in October's qualifiers.
Zinchenko is currently playing for Nottingham Forest on loan from Arsenal.
