The 27-year-old Arsenal defender is currently in talks about a pre-contract agreement that could see him return to Glasgow by summer. According to Sky Sports, Celtic may also look to sign Tierney to a loan deal for the rest of the season, particularly if they advance to the Champions League knockout stages. Kieran Tierney: A Celtic Homecoming in the Making? Tierney’s possible return to Celtic after five and a half years with Arsenal marks a significant move in the transfer window.
Given his few post-injury appearances and Arsenal’s willingness to let him depart, Tierney’s status at the club has come under question. The manager of Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, has stated that he is open to changes and that the squad would continue to prioritize players that have a direct influence on the team. “All the players that are here just want to focus on impacting the team. If something happens, we will assess it,” Arteta stated, highlighting the fluid nature of transfer decisions.
Celtic’s interest in Tierney is a calculated move rather than merely a sentimental one. Tierney may give the team much-needed stability and experience since current left-back Greg Taylor’s contract is about to expire and no new agreement is in the works. In addition, Celtic supporters would greatly benefit from his comeback since they would be able to reestablish a connection with a player who has a strong connection to the team’s recent achievements and history.
However, Arsenal’s decision to perhaps let go of Tierney can be interpreted as a move to restructure their team, either to make room for new players or to rebalance the dynamics of the team after Tierney’s protracted injury.
Tierney’s Deep Roots at Celtic
Tierney’s bond with Celtic is well-documented. Having made over 170 appearances and securing five Scottish Premiership titles, his affection for the club remains strong. In a 2022 interview on The Currie Club podcast, Tierney expressed his ongoing love for Celtic, leaving the door open for a return: “I’m always going to love Celtic, I’m always going to support Celtic, so you never know in football,” he shared, hinting at the emotional pull that could influence his decision.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been coy about the potential transfer, emphasizing the club’s policy of announcing signings only once they are confirmed. However, his previous comments about Tierney being “one of us” underscore the personal connection and the high regard in which he is held. Rodgers, who witnessed Tierney’s rise during his earlier tenure at Celtic, understands the value of bringing back a player not just skilled on the field but also cherished by the community.
