Why Kieran Tierney's new contract means more than a big-money signing

Kieran Tierney, 24

Why Kieran Tierney's new contract means more than a big-money signing 

By Oscar Maung-Haley

With the summer transfer window now in full flow, we look at why Kieran Tierney’s new long-term contract means more than a big-money signing. 

A marauding left-back, Tierney has made 62 appearances for the Gunners since joining from Celtic in the summer of 2019 for £25m. 

He was instrumental in Arsenal’s run to the FA Cup final in 2020 and helped them overcome Chelsea at Wembley. 

And while he has had injury struggles during this time, the Scottish international is a key part of Arsenal’s future, with the 24-year-old calling it an easy decision to extend his stay. 

“It feels amazing, when the manager came to me and said that the club wanted to extend my deal and that they were so happy at how I've come on, it was amazing for me to hear,” said Tierney. 

“I think the vision of the club and where it wants to go, the expectations of the club is where I want to be in football, at the top.” 

And technical director Edu was in lock-step with Tierney about how he views the new contract as part of building for the future. 

“We are so pleased to have agreed a new long-term deal with Kieran,” said Edu. 

“Kieran’s new contract is not just about the present and next season, it’s with a long-term vision and Kieran being an integral part of the future of the club.” 

A statement of intent 

Clearly, Tierney’s resigning is a statement of intent. 

It shows Arsenal are serious about putting in place the spine of a team that can grow together. 

While true they do need to strengthen, extending a key part of the clubs rebuild can go a long way in helping to turn around the Gunners’ fortunes in the long run 

Defensive options 

Additionally, Tierney is also offers flexibility in defence too. 

Due to Scotland having two of the best left-backs in Europe, Tierney operates as a left-sided centre-back in a back three/five, giving Liverpool’s Andy Robertson a license to roam. 

And it’s a role he has played for Arsenal on occasion when Bukayo Saka played on the left-hand side at times last season. 

While Saka’s future probably lies on the right wing, having Tierney be able to slot into a back three is by no means a bad thing. 

By locking Tierney in for the prime of his career they have secured a valuable piece in the club’s rebuild. 

An Arsenal legend? 

Over the last few years, the club has made some questionable decisions in the transfer market. 

Equally, one of Arsenal’s issues in recent times has also been how they have been unable to keep hold of their very best players too. 

Had Arsenal signed more players like Tierney, they might not have finished eighth in back-to-back Premier League campaigns. 

If Tierney he can keep himself fit and on the pitch, he could become an Arsenal legend, such is his quality. 

Arsenal have one of the best full-backs in the league on their hands. 

And if they can utilise him to his full potential, there can no doubt that he will be instrumental in helping the Gunners become a dominate force once again. 

Photo credit: Getty Images 

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