Why Arsenal cannot afford to let go of Kieran Tierney
According to The Telegraph (h/t Daily Mail), Napoli have been linked with a move for Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney. The Italian side pursued him in 2019 but were beaten to it by Arsenal. Nonetheless, they keep hopes of signing him in the future but want a temporary solution now before trying to sign Tierney next season.
Tierney is one of Arsenal’s most important players currently
Having risen through the ranks of Celtic’s youth system, Tierney, 23, enjoyed success with the club in the last decade. He was one of the key members in their title-winning campaigns and also helped them lift three Scottish League Cups. After 170 appearances for the Glasgow-based team, he was signed by Arsenal last summer.
Though he initially failed to make an impact due to his struggle with injury, he has been a standout performer for the Gunners in recent months. The Scottish international has received rave reviews for his performances and is highly talented.
It has taken time but Tierney looks like he has finally nailed down a spot in Mikel Arteta’s side. During Arsenal’s struggles this season, Tierney kept up his performances and refused to be bogged down.
His perseverance has paid off as he is now among the players leading a fightback for the Gunners to turn around and save their season. He has endeared himself to fans with his performances and his wonder goal against West Brom just reinstated the fact.
Arsenal need to keep Tierney for the long-term
For a long time, Arsenal struggled with the left-back position. Since the days of Ashley Cole, an adequate replacement couldn’t be found. Sead Kolasinac showed promise but had his own set of flaws and was shipped out. Now that Kolasinac has left the club, it leaves the side without a natural left-back.
Yes, Bukayo Saka and Ainsley Maitland-Niles can chip in that position but they are better suited to play higher up the pitch. Not only is Tierney important to the side just due to his position, but it is about what he brings to the side that underlines his value.
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He is a ferocious performer on the pitch giving his all. Martin Keown rightly suggested that Tierney can be Arsenal captain one day. If Arsenal are aiming to recover from their slump, the Scot will be a huge driving factor. Under no circumstances can the club allow him to leave for Napoli or any other club that could show interest in him.
