Former Celtic midfielder Kris Commons believes Kieran Tierney is destined to be the club’s captain in the future—provided he can stay fit.
Tierney, who joined Arsenal for £25 million in 2019 after 10 years in the youth academy and four years in the first team, was seen by many as the natural successor to Scott Brown, but his departure to North London meant that role never materialised.
With Brown moving on in 2021, Callum McGregor stepped up to become club captain, a decision that has proven to be the right one as he has led the team well. However, Commons believes there could still be an opportunity for Tierney to return and follow in McGregor’s footsteps.
Commons said: (PLZ Soccer), “I think between 27 and 31, you would say that your body is at optimum, peak performance. Experience, just the knowledge of the game. The understanding, the tactical side. And knowing exactly where you’re supposed to be on the field and your role off it.”
“I know that Kieran Tierney will probably be a captain in the making. I know that that’s something he’s certainly played a bit-part in. But yeah, I think Kieran Tierney will be a captain of the future.”
“If he keeps himself fit and plays week-in, week-out, there’s no question. For the young team coming through at the moment—you know, 15, 16, 17-year-old lads that have got aspirations to play for Celtic’s first team—Kieran Tierney will be a player you will be looking up to and trying to emulate what he’s achieved over the last ten years.”
Arsenal Block January Return—But Summer Move Set
Despite strong interest from Celtic this month, Arsenal have opted to keep Tierney until the end of the season. With Mikel Arteta’s side challenging for the Premier League title and still in the Champions League, they were unwilling to sanction a January exit.
Tierney has already agreed a pre-contract deal with Celtic and will return in the summer on a four-year contract. Brendan Rodgers had pushed for an early return on loan, but the finances involved—particularly wages—proved to be a sticking point.
For now, Celtic fans will have to wait a few more months to see KT back in the Hoops, but if Commons’ prediction proves right, he could return not just as a key player but as a future captain.
