Arsenal star Jakub Kiwior saw his influence in the side grow over the last six months, after a slow start to life in North London.
The Poland International arrived at Arsenal in a surprise deal from Spezia in January 2023, as cover at centre-back and left-back.
It initially took some time before Kiwior was given an opportunity, with Rob Holding selected instead to cover when William Saliba picked up a long-term injury in March 2023.
Kiwior still struggled for game time until he came in at left-back in 2024, and after initially struggling in the unfamiliar position, he shone for a while before he was eventually replaced by Takehiro Tomiyasu.
When he joined, Oleksandr Zinchenko was the undisputed first-choice left-back. This is no longer the case, but when Kiwior arrived, the Ukrainian went through extra effort to help accommodate him in the Arsenal squad.
Oleksandr Zinchenko helped Jakub Kiwior integrate into the Arsenal squad
A report from The Athletic has now revealed that shortly before Kiwior’s signing was confirmed, Zinchenko went out of his way to welcome him into the Arsenal squad.
“Given they come from a similar part of Europe, it’s perhaps no surprise he has struck up a good rapport with Oleksandr Zinchenko. It was the Ukrainian who first introduced Kiwior to the Arsenal dressing room,” the report revealed.
“Kiwior was a guest at the Emirates Stadium for the 3-2 win over Manchester United in January last year. He was due to finalise his medical and sign his contract the following day. Spotting Kiwior in the stadium’s underbelly after the match, Zinchenko insisted on taking him into the dressing room to meet his new teammates and take part in the celebrations.”
Oleksandr Zinchenko displayed strong leadership when Jakub Kiwior arrived at Arsenal
Zinchenko has been the subject of criticism in recent months after what was a strong first season at Arsenal since his move from Manchester City, but even those who criticise his defensive ability can see the leadership and experience he brings to the squad.
The 27-year-old arrived as a four-time Premier League winner, and is one of the most vocal players on the pitch. It is clear that he is a key leader for Arteta in the squad, and his gesture towards Kiwior, who at times has taken his place in the starting lineup, shows the value he brings to the team off the pitch.
Zinchenko has been linked with a move away this summer, but it is unclear whether Arsenal would be willing to sell such an experienced player.
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