Arsenal loanee Jakub Kiwior has already been drafted into action for Porto, shortly after making the transfer to the Portuguese club.
The Polish international impressed during his stint at the Emirates Stadium, especially at the end of last season when replacing the injured Gabriel Magalhaes.
However, after a few seasons of playing the backup role, Jakub Kiwior had aims of becoming a first-team starter.
That was unlikely to happen at Arsenal, given the quality options ahead of him at Mikel Arteta’s disposal.
So, as a result, Kiwior joined Porto on loan for the season, with a permanent option, which created a domino effect that saw Arsenal sign Piero Hincapie.
Now, just a few days into his career at the Portuguese club, the defender has already been handed a debut and an impressive one at that.
Jakub Kiwior given four out of five stars on Porto debut against Nacional
It has been a hectic few weeks for Kiwior, as he sealed his transfer to Porto, before he went out on international duty right away.
The defender returned and was immediately thrown into the mix, as his new side took on Nacional in league action.
The Dragoes were far from their sparkling best, as they stumbled their way towards a 1-0 win, courtesy of Samu Aghehowa from the penalty spot.
Kiwior, however, impressed on his first start for the side, as Mais Futebol gave him four stars out of five for his debut.
It was the joint-highest rating for the evening, matching Borja Sainz and Lucas Franca for their displays.
Sofascore gave him a 7.9 rating, the highest of the match, as he won all four of his attempted ground duels and his one aerial duel that he contested.
Four tackles, two clearances, one blocked shot, and one interception painted the picture for a good display.
Add to that some comfort on the ball, with 96% passing accuracy, and Kiwior truly showed what he is capable of.
Jakub Kiwior reveals surprise at being a starter for Porto so soon
While Kiwior has moved away from Arsenal to be a starter, there was some surprise that he was thrown in so quickly.
The defender revealed as much when speaking after the victory to O Jogo, as he said: “I wasn’t expecting to be a starter, but I’m grateful for the opportunity and I’m happy to have played this game.
“FC Porto is a great team, and it’s an honour for those of us who are here to play for this club.”
It’s a fresh start for Kiwior, one that he will be hoping can carry on in the same fashion as his impressive debut.
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