The Ukrainian international Oleksandr Zinchenko suffered a severe blow after sustaining a serious knee injury during his first start with Ajax Amsterdam. He was forced to leave the field just a few minutes into his team's match against Fortuna Sittard, amid significant concerns about a long-term injury.

The 29-year-old player joined Ajax from Arsenal with the aim of regaining his form and maintaining his chances with his national team, but he suffered an injury in an early clash with an opposing player, which required medical intervention and his removal from the match amid clear pain.

Reports indicate that Zinchenko will undergo MRI scans to determine the severity of the injury, with concerns of a ligament tear in the knee that may require surgery and a long rehabilitation period, potentially ending his season with the Dutch club early.

The injury gains greater significance on the international level, as Zinchenko was aiming to regain his readiness before crucial engagements with the Ukrainian national team, particularly the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The team faces decisive matches in the qualifying path (including a potential playoff against Sweden), making his possible absence a significant blow to coach Serhiy Rebrov's ambitions in the upcoming phase.