Thanks for everything, Kieran To read more about his transfer to Celtic

Official: Kieran Tierney Joins Celtic on Permanent Transfer

Kieran Tierney has officially returned to Celtic in a move that completes a full-circle moment in the 28-year-old’s footballing journey. The Scottish giants have confirmed the defender has signed a five-year contract that will keep him at Parkhead until the summer of 2030, following his release from Arsenal earlier this month.

The deal marks a significant moment not just for Tierney, but for the club and its fans, who have long regarded the player as one of their own. Having come through Celtic’s youth ranks, Tierney’s bond with the club runs deep — and this transfer represents more than just a signing; it’s a homecoming.

Tierney’s career has taken him across top European leagues. After leaving Celtic in 2019 for Arsenal in a then-record £25 million move, he impressed during his early years in North London. Despite facing persistent injury setbacks, his commitment and leadership earned him the admiration of both teammates and supporters.

Speaking after sealing the move, Tierney was visibly emotional but composed, reflecting on the importance of his return. “I spoke with the manager, and obviously I had worked with him before and I’ve always kept in touch with him. He’s one of the best, so I’m so lucky and grateful that he’s given me the chance to come back again.”

During the 2023–24 season, Tierney spent time on loan with Real Sociedad in La Liga, where he impressed with his adaptability and tactical discipline. That experience, he says, has shaped him both on and off the pitch. “When you move away from home, you grow up, you learn different things. I was in Spain for a year, learning a different language and playing in a different league, so I’m definitely a different person.”

He continued, “Player-wise, it’s the same as I always say – I’ll try and work my hardest, I’ll do my best for the club and that’s all I can do.”

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers, who previously coached Tierney during his first spell at the club, was instrumental in securing the deal. Rodgers reportedly made it clear to the board that bringing Tierney back was a priority for the club’s long-term vision and leadership both on and off the pitch.

Tierney’s return will add strength to a Celtic side aiming to continue its domestic dominance while pushing further in European competitions. With Champions League football on the horizon, the experience Tierney brings from both the Premier League and La Liga could prove vital.

“My ambition is just for Celtic to be as successful as possible,” Tierney added. “Retain our place at the top and continue to win trophies and do well for Celtic.”

Fans have responded to the announcement with an outpouring of joy, many taking to social media to share their memories of Tierney’s early days and their excitement for what lies ahead. The Celtic Park faithful are known for their deep emotional connection with players who represent the club’s values, and Tierney fits that mold perfectly.

Though his time at Arsenal came to a mixed end — promising beginnings marred by injuries and fierce competition for places — Tierney remains grateful for the experience. The move to Celtic allows him a fresh start, but one rooted in familiarity and a strong support base.

The left-back will likely take on a leadership role within the squad, and there’s even speculation that he may be considered for the captaincy in the future. His leadership qualities have never been in doubt, having worn the armband during his time at Arsenal on multiple occasions.

This transfer also symbolizes a shift in Celtic’s strategy — bringing back experienced, homegrown talent who can guide younger players and embody the club’s identity. Tierney’s arrival could inspire more Scottish talents who have moved abroad to consider similar returns.

While the financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, it is understood that Tierney made significant compromises in order to facilitate the move, including a reduction in wages. This, to many fans, only reinforces his love for the club and his desire to contribute beyond monetary gain.

With preseason training just weeks away, Tierney will soon join his teammates in preparation for what promises to be a highly competitive campaign. Expectations will be high, but few doubt that Tierney is up to the challenge.

In the grand narrative of football, stories like these are rare — where a player’s professional journey takes him far and wide, only to bring him back to where it all began. For Celtic and Kieran Tierney, the next chapter begins now — one rooted in pride, history, and an undying connection to the green and white hoops.