The year 2022 saw the conflicts between Ukraine and Russia going to the next level. It affected the people from both countries and saw the soccer games coming to a standstill. However, the tensions also had effects on the soccer stars, with Arsenal defender Oleksandr Zinchenko being one of them.

The former Manchester City star was on the Piers Morgan Uncensored recently. He spoke about his emotional state when everything started last year in February. Let us dive deep to know what Zinchenko felt during the troublesome period.

Arsenal superstar had two options

The year 2022 saw tensions between Russia and Ukraine escalate. It affected millions of people. Zinchenko recently divulged his emotional outburst when everything started and what options he had during these critical times. While speaking with Piers Morgan, he said, “I remember quite well the first couple of weeks that I just lost my head. I didn’t know where I am. I didn’t know where I’m driving to… to the training ground or somewhere. I didn’t know honestly.”

“I was like in the space. I couldn’t believe that this has happened. But in the end, you know there are two options: You just keep being in the space, or you have to do your best to help your country, to help your Ukranian people as much as you can,” Zinchenko added. 

“You have to represent your country in the best way you could. So that was the conversation between all of us abroad players which are playing for the national team, and obviously that was my decision to carry on, to do my best, and to help as much as I can because I know that I will be much much more helpful to the country and to the people from here rather than being there. But I really wanted to be there,” the Arsenal superstar said about the option he chose. 

The Arsenal defender kickstarted his own initiative to help his war-torn home.

Oleksandr Zinchenko started Football For Ukraine

Zinchenko established Football for Ukraine to aid the Ukrainian people in their struggles. As part of their efforts, he joined hands with Ukraine legend Andriy Shevchenko for a charity game. The all-star Game 4 Ukraine will take place at Stamford Bridge in London. It aims at raising funds to construct demolished schools and other facilities.

READ MORE: Worth $5,300,000,000 Billionaire Owner Agrees on an American Style All-Star Game for Ukraine at Chelsea Amid Tensions With Russia

The game will also help to fulfill the dream of Zinchenko. The Arsenal defender wanted to play under the legendary Arsene Wenger, but that didn’t happen. However, he’s got a chance now as Wenger will manage the team Zinchenko is captaining for Game 4 Ukraine. Zinchenko will be eagerly waiting for August 5 to play under Wenger.

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Let us know your thoughts on the career of Oleksandr Zinchenko.