Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, has made it clear that Kieran Tierney is not part of his future plans for the team, indicating that the left-back is likely to leave the club in the upcoming January transfer window. This development comes after Tierney’s challenging loan spell at Real Sociedad, which did not yield the desired results.
Initially, there were strong indications that Tierney would depart Arsenal during the summer transfer window. However, those plans changed dramatically when he sustained a serious hamstring injury during a Euro 2024 group stage match for Scotland against Switzerland, which ended in a 1-1 draw. This unfortunate injury not only sidelined him from the tournament but also delayed any potential transfer discussions regarding his future.
Now, despite having recovered from his injury, Tierney has yet to make it into any matchday squad for Arsenal this season. In fact, many fans have seemingly forgotten about his presence at the club, underscoring how far he has fallen out of favor with the coaching staff.
Renowned Arsenal journalist Charles Watts has shared insights regarding Tierney’s situation, stating unequivocally that the 27-year-old left-back is no longer in Arteta’s plans. He emphasized that this decision is not rooted in any animosity; rather, it reflects the club’s evolution and the changing requirements of their playing style. Arteta’s system, which focuses on different attributes from its defenders, no longer aligns with what Tierney offers.
Watts elaborated on Tierney’s ongoing recovery, noting that had it not been for his unfortunate injury at the Euros, the player might already have found himself at another club by now. As things stand, it seems likely that Tierney will seek a loan move in January to gain playing time, with hopes of eventually securing a permanent transfer.
Despite the challenges he has faced in recent years, Tierney has maintained a strong connection with the fans, who regard him as a beloved figure at Arsenal. Supporters have expressed sympathy for his situation, with some voicing their concerns on social media. One fan articulated a sentiment shared by many, criticizing the treatment of Tierney by the club: “It’s totally disrespectful for a player who was our best player through the dark times. It’s brutal, and while I understand the nature of the business, it feels like some players are treated more favorably than others.”
As Arsenal navigates this transitional phase, the future of Kieran Tierney remains uncertain, and it will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds as the January transfer window approaches.