Kieran Tierney is poised to make his first Arsenal appearance in over 16 months during Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Monaco. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed Tierney’s inclusion, necessitated by a spate of injuries in Arsenal’s defensive ranks. Thomas Partey, Jurriën Timber, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Gabriel Magalhães all missed training on Tuesday, leaving their availability doubtful for the crucial match. Both Arsenal and Monaco are tied on 10 points from five games, making this encounter pivotal for their European campaigns.
Tierney, who returned to the Arsenal fold after a loan stint at Real Sociedad and recovering from a hamstring injury sustained at Euro 2024, last played for the Gunners in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City in August 2023. Arteta expressed confidence in the Scottish international, praising his commitment and readiness. “He is ready, he’s training really well, and he’s going to have an opportunity for sure,” Arteta said. “He’s earned it through his behavior and effort.”
The Arsenal boss also acknowledged the strain of the relentless schedule on his squad, citing recurring injuries among players returning to action. “They are under a lot of demands at the moment,” Arteta said. “Unless you are out of a cup or something, there are very few breaks. We want to win every competition, but maintaining the level we want is challenging with such intensity.”
Among Arsenal’s key figures, Martin Ødegaard recently returned to action following a 12-match absence due to injury. The Norwegian captain, who celebrated becoming a father last week, reflected on his evolving role within the team. “We have quite a young squad, and I feel like I’m one of the more experienced older guys now,” he remarked. “That’s new for me but something I enjoy. I’ve gained a lot of experience, and I’m trying to use that to help those around me.”
Ødegaard also highlighted Arsenal’s collective leadership ethos, emphasizing mutual support to drive improvement. Despite their injury challenges, the Gunners remain focused on competing across all fronts, with Tierney’s return offering a timely boost to their defensive lineup.
