Arsenal are still seeking a balance between new faces and the solidity they already possess. The defence has been a key focus for Mikel Arteta since he arrived in London. The team not only wants to fight for the Premier League, but also to make their mark in Europe. That’s why every key detail counts. In this summer full of rumours, some names seem immovable. Jakub Kiwior, for example, has made it clear that he has earned his place. After just two seasons, he has become a reliable player for the Spanish coach. His versatility and commitment are convincing, and now all indications are that he will continue to play for the Gunners.
Arsenal: New centre-back yes; departure no?
According to Football Insider, Arsenal have no plans to release Jakub Kiwior this summer. Although the north Londoners have all but sealed the arrival of Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia, that does not mean the Pole will be packing his bags. Kiwior, who cost 20 million euros from Spezia Calcio, has made 68 official appearances for the Gunners and has even contributed eight goals between assists and finishes.
Arteta values highly his ability to adapt. He has played as a centre-back, full-back and even defensive midfielder when the situation demanded it. The departure of Takehiro Tomiyasu opened up space to reinforce the back four, and keeping four reliable centre-backs is now the priority.
More options, same confidence
That Arsenal are not thinking of selling Kiwior reflects something deeper. Arteta wants a solid and flexible squad to avoid injury scares. Mosquera arrives to add youth and muscle, but not to take the limelight away from Jakub. Keeping him allows the Gunners to cover for Saliba and Gabriel without losing quality. In my opinion, the decision speaks well of how the club manages the squad: without rushing and without triggering unnecessary rumours.
While many teams are renewing on a shoestring, Arsenal prefer to retain players who already know Arteta’s plan by heart. Moreover, Kiwior symbolises an increasingly necessary footballer profile: the player who performs quietly, who does not demand the spotlight, but who rarely fails. His permanence reinforces the idea that not every brilliant signing makes up for losing a soldier who you know how he responds. Arsenal are assured of experience, versatility and, above all, tactical coherence for a season that promises to be demanding.