Since he dropped out of the Arsenal starting eleven after a run of starts at left back last season, Jakub Kiwior has found things very difficult in north London.
Kiwior has been on the sidelines at Arsenal rarely receiving an opportunity of any real merit.
When Mikel Arteta has given Kiwior a chance, it’s often been in tricky circumstances, when Arsenal are down to 10 men or he’s simply been asked to play out of position.
But during the 2-0 win over Manchester United, Kiwior was given the chance to play 90 minutes in his strongest role at left centre-back, a rarity for the Poland international.
William Saliba was impressed by Kiwior during that opportunity, even handing the defender a new nickname in the aftermath.
Arsenal fans share verdict on Jakub Kiwior’s display vs Man United
That being said, Arsenal fans were overwhelmingly positive about Kiwior’s showing too, even if one or two were apprehensive when his name was included on the team sheet.
Kiwior earned his first start of the season in the Premier League, and found new respect from supporters in N5.
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Posting on X, one fan admitted: “I was worried seeing his name in the starting XI but he’s proven me wrong. Fair play to Kiwior.”
Another supporter noticed one or two ‘minor issues’ with Kiwior’s play but was overwhelmingly positive about the defender, who he much preferred playing as a centre-back.
“Kiwior had a good game last night. Even in the first half, only some minor issues like not being too convincing when intercepting the ball.
“He grew into the game though and it’s natural given he doesn’t play regularly. Good player, especially [at] centre half.”
One fan actually thought Kiwior deserved the player of the match award, one that was given to Declan Rice instead.
“My man of the match, Jakub Kiwior. Many will have worried with both Gabriel and Calafiori away from that left-hand side. You didn’t notice the absence.
“Kiwior won 5/6 duels (sometimes his weakness). Important performance to allow us not to take risks on players.”
Jakub Kiwior set on leaving Arsenal
Of course, it’s long been reported that Kiwior wants to leave Arsenal and potentially return to Italian football.
Kiwior is one of three players who could leave Arsenal in January, a trio who were all in the squad against Man United.
That realisation alone demonstrates why Arsenal can’t afford to let go of multiple players next month – their squad simply isn’t big enough.
And to that end, Arteta provided a Gabriel injury update after the win over United at the Emirates Stadium.
Regardless of Kiwior’s strong showing, Arsenal need both Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori back for a big test on Sunday, when the Gunners will face Emile Smith Rowe for the first time.
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