Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior got his second assist in three league games against Burnley at the weekend.
In the absence of the injured Oleksandr Zinchenko, the Polish international has impressed on the left-hand side of defence.
After some difficult moments earlier in the season, fans on X are very happy that Kiwior has managed to turn a corner:
He’s better than zinchenko
— cex (@royce_ck) February 17, 2024
Really glad we didn't sell or loan him this January, he's quality
— Steven Jones (@mrstevenjones1) February 17, 2024
what a player
— 👤 (@Flexdeyforyou) February 17, 2024
He owns that left back until he gets injured
— Afe👧 (@REGINAAU) February 17, 2024
He is a better passer than Zinchenko
— 4OURTEEN (@Laughterrr_) February 17, 2024
It's now clear that Kiwior is the most underrated player
— Shem (@thee_assist8) February 17, 2024
He has been solid for the past few games. Looked so much more comfortable on ball and 1v1.
— Dexter (@dexterhlfung) February 17, 2024
A tweak to Arsenal’s formation has helped the player
When Kiwior was first given the responsibility of replacing Zinchenko in games, he was originally tasked with performing the same job as an inverted fullback.
However, as the 24-year-old is more comfortable as a centre-half, he didn’t really take to the position. Since being reintroduced to the starting eleven in recent weeks, manager Mikel Arteta has asked him to play as a more conventional left-back, and we have seen better displays as a result.
There is strong interest in Kiwior from Italian clubs
The Pole moved from Serie A side Spezia for £20m in January last year but teams in Italy have kept close tabs on the player.
It has been reported that the likes of AC Milan and others are still interested in signing Kiwior, with speculation suggesting that they could make bids for him this summer. Based on his recent form, though, Arteta will be hoping to keep him at the Emirates.
