On the last day of the season, City came back from two goals behind to overcome Aston Villa 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium, retaining their title.
The city’s historic victory was aided by Zinchenko, who came off the bench at halftime to inspire their comeback.
During the post-match celebrations, Zinchenko was filled with joy and draped the Premier League trophy in the Ukrainian yellow and blue flag.
The 25-year-old was eager to draw attention to Ukraine’s hardship in the months since Russia’s invasion.
“I’m pleased to be a Ukrainian, and I’d love to bring this championship to Ukraine for all Ukrainians one day,” Zinchenko added.
Zinchenko, like all of his people, has been badly affected by the conflict.
He’s participated in peaceful protests in Manchester and has spoken out against the invasion earlier this season.
Zinchenko believes that helping City win its fourth title in five seasons is the best way for him to reciprocate Guardiola’s, his teammates’, and the club’s supporters’ support.
“At times, especially in the beginning, I didn’t even think about football because it’s impossible to live at the same time as what’s going on in my country,” Zinchenko explained.
“But, what can I say, we did it with all of the support that I had in the past and throughout this period?”
“To be honest, the support means everything to me. I want to die for all of this support because what people have given me, what they have done for me during this difficult time in my life, is so cherished and I will never forget it.”
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