‘Horrendous’ Arsenal star was ‘bullied’ by Crystal Palace, now his ‘rise to prominence’ has changed his transfer stance

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Arsenal were disappointing in their latest 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace.

Arsenal fans were furious with Raheem Sterling’s performance whilst there were also poor displays from William Saliba and David Raya.

Mikel Arteta was unhappy with his side’s lack of control in the game and it was far from ideal preparation for the Champions League semi-final first leg showdown with PSG at the Emirates Stadium.

However, Jakub Kiwior once again shone in the Arsenal player ratings v Crystal Palace and capped his fine display off with the opening goal – a far cry from his last performance against Palace in the Carabao Cup.

READ MORE: French media praised Arsenal star last time Mikel Arteta’s team played PSG – they can’t rely on him this time

Jakub Kiwior ‘bullied’ by Crystal Palace in Carabao Cup clash

Arsenal fans claimed Kiwior was horrendous back in December 2024 after Jean-Philippe Mateta ‘bullied’ the Polish defender for the opening goal.

It was a tough spell for the 24-year-old at the Gunners with many doubting that he had the quality to replace the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes in Arteta’s side.

Arteta blocked Kiwior’s sale in January after interest from clubs in Italy nearly saw the defender depart the Emirates but that decision is now proving to be a shrewd one from the Gunners boss.

Kiwior has been excellent since his return to the side and his confidence is growing week upon week after sensational displays against Real Madrid before his latest redemption against Crystal Palace.

David Ornstein reveals Arsenal stance has changed on Kiwior sale

As per the Athletic, journalist David Ornstein has revealed that Arsenal’s stance on letting Kiwior depart may have changed due to his recent ‘rise to prominence’.

Ornstein stated: “Previously, I thought Kiwior exiting Arsenal was highly possible… that might be less certain following his recent rise to prominence.”

Arsenal’s interest in Dean Huijsen could impact Kiwior’s future at the club however, statistics show that the Gunners may be better off using their budget in other areas.

Kiwior is more than a match for Huijsen in terms of tackling and distribution however, the Bournemouth man is better in the air and can pick a pass through the lines.