Arsenal confirmed they would be playing Champions League football next season with a 1-0 victory over Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium. The two sides met in a Premier League clash on Sunday evening and a wonder goal from Declan Rice was all it took for Mikel Arteta's men to get the win and all three points.
The result ensured the Gunners would finish in the top five of the league and they qualified for the Champions League. Rice's strike was an incredible one, with the midfielder firing it in from distance and he's earned plenty of plaudits for his role in the win. He's not the only Arsenal player who's been showered with praise on social media after the win, though, and fans are now clamouring for the club to keep hold of Jakub Kiwior after he dominated the Magpies.
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Arsenal Fans Want the Club to Keep Kiwior This Summer
They revealed as much online
Jakub Kiwior
As is often the case, Rice will almost certainly gain the most attention for Arsenal's win. He did score the winning goal after all, but Kiwior was just as important to the team's victory and supporters have been quick to sing his praises online. Having stepped into the starting lineup following Gabriel's injury, the centre-back has settled in seamlessly. He's proven to be an excellent defender and is capable of starting for one of the best teams in England. As a result, reports suggest there will be interest in his services this summer, but after the win against Newcastle, Arsenal fans want the club to hold onto him.
Speaking on X (Twitter), one supporter described him as immense, saying: "Kiwior has been immense since coming in for Gabriel. Literally elite form," while another posted: "Jakub Kiwior is having a tremendous game."
Several supporters called for the club to keep hold of Kiwior despite interest from other clubs. One stated: "Really hope Kiwior stays next season. Tough one for him though, because he likely won’t be getting regular minutes with Gabriel and Saliba healthy… He’s improved massively." Another fan agreed, posting: "I don’t want Kiwior to go this summer." Finally, a fifth supporter called for the club to not just keep him, but offer him a new contract and said: "Kiwior new deal please. Crazy to sell him."
Considering how good the centre-back was against Newcastle, it's easy to see why fans are so determined for Arsenal to keep him at the club this summer.
Kiwior Against Newcastle
The defender was excellent
Jakub Kiwior
Replacing someone like Gabriel isn't easy. The Brazilian has been excellent for Arsenal over the years, but Kiwior has done a fine job stepping in during his injury and he impressed against Eddie Howe's men. He was a rock at the back. He made 10 clearances throughout the game, keeping Newcastle at bay. He also recorded two interceptions, blocked two shots and made four tackles in total.
He won four of his five ground duels, he won two aerial duels and even made two key passes, demonstrating his ability to contribute on both ends of the pitch. It was a masterclass of a performance from the defender and he was crucial to Mikel Arteta's men clinching a spot in the Champions League. As far as back-up defenders go, there aren't many better options than Kiwior now. Arsenal would be wise to keep the star around as that sort of depth could be what finally sees them get their hands on the Premier League trophy again.
All statistics courtesy of SofaScore and accurate as of 18/05/2025