Kierney Tierney
Image credit: Getty Images
Mikel Arteta has shared his thoughts on the performance of Kieran Tierney after the left-back made his first start for Arsenal in over 500 days during the 3-2 Carabao Cup quarter-final victory over Crystal Palace.
Tierney, 27, joined Arsenal from Celtic five years ago and quickly became a fan favorite under then-manager Unai Emery. However, his Arsenal career has been marred by persistent injuries, limiting his availability and forcing him out of the club’s plans last season. The Scotland international was subsequently loaned to Real Sociedad.
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Once viewed as a potential future captain, Tierney has struggled to regain his place in Arteta’s squad, slipping down the pecking order. This season, even teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly has been deployed as a makeshift left-back ahead of him.
Kieran Tierney
Kieran Tierney (Image credit: Getty Images)
Tierney’s current contract is set to expire next summer, but Arsenal opted not to activate a 12-month extension clause, effectively signaling the end of his time in North London. According toThe Scottish Sun, Celtic are leading the race to re-sign their former star. Brendan Rodgers, the current Celtic manager, is reportedly eager to reunite with Tierney, who won four league titles during his time at the Glasgow club.
The left-back’s return to action against Crystal Palace showed glimpses of his quality. Tierney played 69 minutes before being substituted with cramp, and Arteta praised his effort and adaptability.
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“He’s playing to his strengths,” Arteta said. “That’s something we have to continue to learn because they give you a lot of information—not always with words but in how they perform—about where they feel more comfortable. Certainly, there’s a much better fit for him.”
It remains unclear whether Tierney will depart in the January transfer window or see out the remainder of the season at Arsenal. However, his encouraging comeback has rekindled hopes of a successful return to full fitness, whether in London or Glasgow.
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