Manchester City’s defending midfielder, Oleksandr Zinchenko has been rewarded by the club for his part in domestic domination by penning down a new five-year deal at the Etihad.
The 22-year-old Russian has signed a contract that will keep him in the club until 2024 less than 12 months after looking set to be sold.
City accepted a £16million offer from Wolves for the Ukraine international last summer, having played only a bit-part role during the 2017-18 campaign.
Instead, Zinchenko elected to stay and fight for his place in Pep Guardiola’s side, despite entering the 2018-19 season behind both Benjamin Mendy and Fabian Delph in the pecking order.
The player who signed for just £2.2million from FC Ufa three years ago is set to enter next season as the first choice, having impressed and jumped ahead of the aforementioned duo in the pecking order, and playing 29 times as City won the League Cup, Premier League and FA Cup.
This is what he had to say after signing to deal;
“It’s difficult to express how happy I am to sign this deal,” the Ukraine international said.
“This club offers players everything they need to improve and develop, so being here for five more years is an honour.
“This season shows we are built for success. It’s been amazing to be involved in such a historic campaign and it’s one I’ll never forget.
“But I am now completely focused on the coming years and I know more good times are around the corner.”
“Not only does he have a wonderful first touch and left-foot, he is a player completely focused on becoming the best footballer he can be.
“His improvement since joining us tells you everything you need to know about his attitude and ability.
“Young, hungry and already an established international, he fits perfectly into our long-term strategy. We are delighted he wants to stay here.”