Arsenal star says goodbyes after playing final ever game at Emirates Stadium

Kieran Tierney’s time at Arsenal is nearing its end. After five-and-a-half years at the club, the Scottish international looks set to leave before the close of the January transfer window. His potential move back to Celtic is a bittersweet moment for Arsenal fans, who have witnessed his rise to prominence in the Premier League. The departure marks the conclusion of an era for a player who became a key figure for the Gunners and a fan favorite. But while his exit signifies a new chapter for both Tierney and Arsenal, it also brings with it a sense of nostalgia for what could have been.

Kieran Tierney joined Arsenal from Celtic in the summer of 2019 for a reported £25 million, a significant investment for a player who had established himself as one of the best left-backs in Scotland. Having made his mark at Celtic Park, Tierney arrived at the Emirates with high expectations. However, his journey to Arsenal wasn’t without challenges.

In his early days at the club, Tierney had to contend with injuries that kept him sidelined for significant portions of the season. Despite the setbacks, when he was fit, Tierney’s performances on the pitch quickly earned him the admiration of Arsenal fans. His energetic runs down the left flank, combined with solid defensive displays, made him an integral part of the Gunners’ squad.

Over the next couple of years, Tierney cemented his place as Arsenal’s first-choice left-back. Under the management of Mikel Arteta, he evolved into not only a reliable defender but also a key attacking outlet. His pace, tenacity, and intelligence on the ball made him a constant threat on the left side. His crosses into the box were often pinpoint, and his defensive work earned him widespread praise.

One of the defining moments of his Arsenal career came during the 2020 FA Cup final. Tierney played a crucial role in helping the team secure a 2-1 victory over Chelsea, providing both a defensive and attacking presence. His performances in key matches solidified his place as one of Arsenal’s standout players.

But it wasn’t just the FA Cup that cemented his importance; Tierney’s consistency was key to Arsenal’s defensive stability. Despite a rotation of players in other positions, Tierney was often one of the first names on the team sheet. His work ethic and leadership qualities also stood out, making him a favorite among Arsenal supporters

However, injuries began to take their toll on Tierney during the 2021-2022 season. Frequent setbacks led to a lack of consistency, and as a result, Tierney’s position as the undisputed first-choice left-back was questioned. Enter Oleksandr Zinchenko, who arrived at the club in the summer of 2022 from Manchester City.

Zinchenko’s versatility and technical ability meant that he could operate in various positions, including as a left-back. His arrival placed Tierney under increasing pressure, as Arteta sought to adapt his tactical setup and utilize Zinchenko’s more fluid, inverted style of play. While Tierney’s strengths were undeniable, Zinchenko offered a different dynamic that better suited Arteta’s evolving tactics.

The competition between Tierney and Zinchenko became one of the most talked-about battles in the squad. Despite his strong performances when called upon, Tierney was no longer the automatic starter, and his playing time began to diminish.

As the 2023-2024 season progressed, it became clear that Tierney’s future at Arsenal was uncertain. Although he remained a key part of the squad, his appearances became fewer as Arteta favored Zinchenko in the starting lineup. The whispers of a potential transfer began to grow louder, and speculation regarding Tierney’s departure intensified.

Rumors about a possible return to Celtic began circulating, and the prospect of reuniting with his boyhood club started to look more likely. At 27 years old, Tierney was entering the peak years of his career, and a move back to Celtic would provide him with a chance to rediscover his form and play a leading role in a team where he was beloved.

His departure from Arsenal seemed increasingly inevitable, especially given the depth of competition at left-back and Arteta’s tactical preferences. Arsenal’s interest in other players also suggested that the club was preparing for life without Tierney.

On January 23, 2025, Tierney appeared to have played his final game at the Emirates Stadium as an Arsenal player. In the Champions League match against Dinamo Zagreb, he came on as a substitute in the 74th minute. The scoreline was already in Arsenal’s favor, and with the game well under control, Arteta decided to give Tierney a final run-out in front of the home fans.

As Tierney stepped onto the pitch, the crowd erupted in applause. The reception was a testament to his service to the club, acknowledging the important role he had played in Arsenal’s successes. It was a bittersweet moment for both the player and the supporters, as the reality of his departure set in. Although he may have been on the fringes in recent months, Tierney’s contributions over the years were not forgotten.

For many Arsenal fans, Tierney’s potential departure is a painful moment. He was one of the last connections to the successful Arsenal team of the early 2020s, a player who embodied the qualities the club cherished: hard work, determination, and loyalty. His defensive stability and attacking flair made him an essential part of the team during his prime years, and his leadership on and off the pitch earned him the respect of his teammates.

While Arsenal will continue to evolve under Arteta, Tierney’s departure marks the end of a chapter for a player who gave everything for the club. Arsenal fans, who have grown fond of Tierney’s relentless drive, are now left to reflect on his legacy. Some may feel that his exit is premature, believing that he still has much to offer the club. Others may understand the necessity of change, as Arteta looks to build a squad suited to his vision of the future

As of January 2025, Celtic appears to be on the verge of bringing Tierney back to Parkhead. Manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly keen on reuniting with the left-back, knowing that Tierney would bring an added level of quality to his squad. With Greg Taylor’s future uncertain, Tierney’s arrival would provide Celtic with a proven, high-quality player capable of slotting straight into their starting lineup.

For Tierney, the move back to Celtic represents a return to his roots. Having spent the majority of his career at Celtic, his emotional connection to the club is undeniable. A move back to his boyhood team would allow him to continue playing at a high level while feeling valued and appreciated. It also offers Tierney the opportunity to win more domestic titles, possibly cementing his status as one of Celtic’s greatest-ever players

Kieran Tierney’s time at Arsenal was marked by highs and lows, but his departure will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy. His commitment, passion, and performances on the pitch earned him the admiration of both Arsenal fans and his peers. Whether or not he reaches greater heights at Celtic, Tierney’s time at Arsenal will always be remembered fondly by the Gunners faithful.