Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has underlined Kieran Tierney’s significance to his squad, insisting the Scottish defender remains fully committed to the club despite ongoing speculation about his future.
With the Gunners reportedly opting not to extend Tierney’s current deal, which would make him a free agent this summer, Arteta’s comments signal a desire to retain the left-back — at least for now.
The 26-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad, returned to North London with questions lingering over his role under Arteta.
Tierney’s style — more traditional and overlapping — hasn’t always aligned with Arteta’s preference for an inverted left-back role, which has been expertly filled by Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Despite these tactical challenges, Tierney remains a fan favourite and an experienced, reliable defender. His future, however, has been clouded by recurring injuries and limited playing time, leading to continued links with a potential move back to Celtic or elsewhere.
Arteta’s recent remarks indicate that Tierney is currently in his plans. As quoted by RecordSport, the Arsenal boss emphasised that he would not select a player who was considering an exit:
“At the moment he is here with us. I wouldn’t play a player who is thinking of leaving. He’s a big part of the squad now. He hasn’t come to me and said I want to move. In the past he has done but it hasn’t been the case yet.”
For Celtic, who have been heavily linked with a move to bring Tierney back to Parkhead, Arteta’s comments are significant. They indicate that any potential January transfer might not be straightforward. Fans seem to have long dreamed of a reunion with their former star, whose relentless energy, leadership, and quality were key to their success during his time in Glasgow.
While a loan or pre-contract deal has been speculated, Arteta’s words suggest Tierney still has a role to play at Arsenal — unless the player himself pushes for an exit.
With Brendan Rodgers keen to bolster Celtic’s left-back options, the situation remains fluid.
