Kieran Tierney likely played his last game for Arsenal at the Emirates. The Scottish international, who is nearing a return to Celtic, came on in the 74th minute against Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday.
Tierney, 27, is out of contract at season’s end, but Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is eager to bring him back to Parkhead this month.
With Greg Taylor’s long-term future uncertain, the Hoops believe Tierney can step in seamlessly for the second half of the season.
However, since Tierney’s move to Celtic isn’t finalized, he remains part of Mikel Arteta’s squad and was named on the bench for the Champions League match against Dinamo.
With the Gunners leading 2-0, Arteta substituted Tierney for Oleksandr Zinchenko with just over 15 minutes remaining.
Tierney received a warm ovation from the Arsenal fans, reflecting the appreciation for his service over the last five-and-a-half years. Despite his injury struggles, many remember his impact in the early seasons.
He claimed the left-back position for three years and competed with Zinchenko for the spot during the 2022/23 season.
His appearance against Dinamo was his 128th for the Gunners, potentially his last at home as his move to Celtic draws near.
Tierney was impressive during his time on the pitch against Dinamo, looking confident and comfortable with the ball.
Though he’s set to join Celtic, some Arsenal fans believe he still has a future at the club and are disappointed by his imminent departure.
With Arsenal’s next two matches away against Wolves in the Premier League and Girona in the Champions League, it seems Tierney has played his final home game for the Gunners.
