Forgotten Arsenal Star Kieran Tierney Set for First Start in Nearly Two Years Amid Injury Crisis

Arsenal fans have been left surprised and intrigued as Kieran Tierney, once a key figure in the squad, is poised to make his first start for the club in almost two years.

The Scotsman, who has struggled with injuries and a lack of game time, now finds himself thrust back into the spotlight due to an ongoing injury crisis at the Emirates. As the Gunners prepare to face AS Monaco in a crucial Champions League encounter, Tierney’s return could serve as a defining moment for both the player and the team.

The timing of Tierney’s potential comeback is driven by Arsenal’s depleted defensive options. Injuries have ravaged the squad, with key players such as Thomas Partey, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori all missing training on Tuesday.

This has left Mikel Arteta scrambling to piece together a reliable backline. While the team is still reeling from a disappointing 1-1 draw with Fulham in the Premier League, the upcoming match against Monaco offers a chance to regain momentum in Europe.

Tierney’s absence from the Arsenal lineup has been lengthy and dramatic. The 26-year-old last started for the Gunners in May 2023 during a 3-0 defeat to Brighton. After that, his role diminished, leading to a season-long loan move to Real Sociedad.

During his time in La Liga, Tierney made 26 appearances and showcased his abilities, but he was unable to avoid further setbacks. A hamstring injury sustained while representing Scotland at Euro 2024 seemed to push him further away from Arsenal’s plans.

However, his inclusion in Arsenal’s Champions League squad in September hinted at a potential pathway back into the team.

Now, with circumstances forcing Arteta’s hand, Tierney is set to seize the opportunity. Speaking ahead of the Monaco clash, Arteta praised Tierney’s dedication and readiness:
“He is ready, he’s training really well, and he’s going to have an opportunity for sure. The way he’s behaved and the work he’s put in have earned him this chance.”

Tierney’s professionalism and persistence have clearly impressed the Arsenal boss, who values his experience and tactical versatility during this challenging period.

The injury crisis has left Arsenal with only three fit senior defenders: Tierney, William Saliba, and Jakub Kiwior. This limited pool of options means Tierney’s return is not just an opportunity for personal redemption but also a necessity for the team’s immediate needs.

Despite his long absence, the Scotsman has 124 Arsenal appearances under his belt and has been part of teams that won the FA Cup and two Community Shields. His pedigree and familiarity with high-stakes matches will undoubtedly be crucial as Arsenal aims to secure a vital Champions League victory.

For Tierney, this moment represents a chance to reintegrate himself into Arteta’s plans. Once a regular starter and fan favorite, his career at Arsenal has been hampered by injuries and stiff competition for the left-back position.

However, his versatility—capable of playing as a traditional left-back or in a more advanced role—makes him a valuable asset in Arteta’s tactical setup. The Monaco game could reignite his Arsenal journey, proving his worth when the team needs him the most.

This unexpected opportunity also reflects the unpredictability of football. Few would have predicted Tierney’s resurgence when Arsenal submitted their Champions League squad months ago.

Yet, his inclusion now appears strategic, providing the team with depth during an injury-laden period. Fans will hope Tierney can rekindle the form and intensity he displayed in his early days at Arsenal, particularly during the team’s successful FA Cup run in 2020.

As Arsenal battles for progress in Europe, Tierney’s return could symbolize resilience and determination. While the Gunners’ injury woes have created significant challenges, they also offer players like Tierney a chance to shine.

If the Scotsman can deliver a strong performance against Monaco, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter in his Arsenal career and help the club navigate a pivotal phase in their season.