Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has praised Jakub Kiwior for his impactful performances at Arsenal, noting the Polish defender’s transformative effect on the team in the Premier League. Scholes asserts that Kiwior has been instrumental in bolstering Arsenal’s defensive strength.
Kiwior’s rise to prominence began when he replaced Oleksandr Zinchenko during a pivotal match against Liverpool, subsequently becoming a key figure in Arsenal’s backline.
His introduction at half-time in Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Liverpool marked the start of his continuous presence as a left-back, a period during which Arsenal has conceded only one goal in the Premier League.
Kiwior, a Polish international, has significantly contributed to Arsenal’s recent successes. Under his defensive influence, Arsenal has scored 15 goals in their last three matches, with Kiwior himself scoring in a recent win against Newcastle United.
Football analyst Craig Burley, on ESPN FC, has also highlighted Kiwior’s crucial role in Arsenal’s resurgence.
Burley noted that Kiwior’s natural wing-back abilities have fortified Arsenal’s defense, facilitating a more stable and effective setup. This tactical shift has been pivotal in their strong form, positioning them as serious contenders for the Premier League title.
Burley emphasized that Kiwior’s selection over Zinchenko has prevented the midfield congestion that arose with Zinchenko’s drifting playstyle.
Instead, Kiwior’s traditional wing-back role has allowed Arsenal to maintain a more conventional defensive formation, with Kiwior on one flank and Ben White on the other. This configuration has been vital to Arsenal’s recent defensive stability.
Since his £20 million transfer from Spezia, Kiwior has matured into his role, outshining competitors like Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and the recently returned Jurrien Timber.
Despite stiff competition, Kiwior has consistently delivered strong performances, cementing his place in the starting lineup.
His dependable displays have not only fortified Arsenal’s defense but have also spurred him to continually improve, motivated by the threat of losing his spot.
Kiwior’s impact is evident. As Burley pointed out, having both White and Kiwior has provided Arsenal with a balanced defense, crucial for their stability.
Initially, few expected Kiwior to have such a significant influence, especially after his own goal against Liverpool in the FA Cup.
However, his resilience and quality have made him an essential player for Arsenal, playing a key role in their pursuit of the Premier League title.
Kiwior’s journey from an under-the-radar player to a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defense showcases his remarkable development and the substantial positive impact he has had on the team’s performance.
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