Tierney is on his way back to Celtic but not before one last Arsenal hurrah as he signs off on half a decade in London
12:13, 19 May 2025
Kieran Tierney after his final home game at Arsenal(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Kieran Tierney admits his 'mental' farewell at the Emirates took him by surprise as he gets set to return to Celtic.
The Arsenal defender played his final home match at the club, thrown on as a late sub by Mikel Arteta in the 1-0 win over Newcastle.
He's made more than 100 appearances across his five seasons there and the departing star was met by a huge ovation with the stadium singing his name.
Tierney is honest enough to admit he had a lump in his throat as even he didn't expect such a warm reception.
And he had a big thank you for the fans as his half-decade in North London comes to an end, with a pre-contract move to Parkhead sealed.
He said: "It was emotional because I knew the reception I was going to get. For the five or 10 minutes I was on, I had to put that to the side and stay focused.
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It's mental. I don't really know what I've done for them to love me like this. I'm grateful. I think they can see that I give everything every time, wherever I'm asked to play. That's what they appreciate the most.
"It's disappointing (not having more game time). You always want to win more and more trophies, but I've got no doubt that this team going forward are going to win more than one. I'm telling you right now, they'll win things.
"I've had to grow up here. It was the first time I'd left my house and moved away. The people at the club have been amazing with me, I'm very lucky and feel privileged to represent the club for so long."
In an interview with talkSPORT, he added: "A message to the fans? A simple thank you. I'll never forget the reception I got. It means a lot to me, it's special and I'm very grateful for everything they've done for me."
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