Speculation was rife about a possible departure, but a promising dialogue between Mikel Arteta and the player may put those rumours to bed according to Football Transfers.
- Talks of Kieran Tierney staying at Arsenal are reportedly “progressing well”.
- Arteta personally assured Tierney of significant playing time next season, countering the possibility of a move to Manchester City.
- Tierney’s departure was reconsidered as he provides crucial cover in the left-back position and selling to a title rival mid-season was seen as problematic.
Scottish defender Kieran Tierney and Arsenal are reportedly having fruitful discussions about the player’s future at the club next season.
A potential move away from the Gunners this summer had been a topic of concern for the fans as Tierney sought regular football after losing his first-team spot in the 2022-23 season.
Discussions were underway regarding a possible swap deal that would have seen Tierney switching to Manchester City, with Joao Cancelo moving in the opposite direction. However, the latest developments indicate that Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta has stepped in to ensure Tierney’s stay.
Arteta reportedly held a personal discussion with Tierney, expressing his desire for the Scot to remain at the Emirates.
The Arsenal boss reassured Tierney of his important role in the team and promised him substantial game time in the 2023-24 season. Arteta’s planned three-man backline for the next term is said to suit Tierney perfectly, adding weight to his argument.
If Joao Cancelo was to arrive at the Emirates, it would be to take up the right-back position. As the Scot is their only recognised left-back cover, Arsenal rejected City’s interest in the winter transfer window.
Selling a key player to a title rival mid-season was a risk Arsenal were not willing to take.
Pep Guardiola, the Man City boss, is also an admirer of Tierney. He had initiated talks with Arteta about Tierney during the World Cup.
However, the latest conversations between Arsenal and Tierney are seemingly solidifying their partnership for the next term, much to Arsenal fans’ delight.
Despite City’s ongoing interest, the promising talks between Tierney and Arsenal may very well mean that the player will be sporting the red and white next season, delivering a significant blow to Guardiola’s plans.
