Arsenal considering Kieran Tierney loan recall

Recent reports have emerged suggesting that Kieran Tierney could be recalled early from his loan spell at Real Sociedad amid Arsenal’s left back dilemma.

Following the arrival of Oleksandr Zinchenko from Manchester City, Tierney saw a gradually diminishing amount of game time. Arteta incorporated an inverted full-back system that Tierney struggled to perform in. Zinchenko, however, was excelling in the inverted full-back role and hence got his spot in the starting 11.

Tierney, meanwhile, was sent out on loan for game time in the summer transfer window. It's fair to assume that Mikel Arteta had no intention of using the player this season, especially after Jurrien Timber's purchase. However, a recent dip in form and injuries seems to have forced the Spanish manager to reconsider his decision.

According to reports from the Express, Arteta confirmed a possible calf injury to Zinchenko for an undefined amount of time. This injury crisis has drawn out suggestions that the Gunners may recall Tierney this month.

Why Arsenal should consider recalling Kieran Tierney

So, how good of an idea is it really to recall the Scottish left back? I’d say that, given the circumstances, it may not be a bad shout. Jakub Kiwior featured as a left-back in Arsenal’s recent loss to Fulham, and while Kiwior has shown some quality since joining the club, he is simply not a full-back. He can operate in a three-at-the-back system as a left centre-back, but not as a full-back.

With Takehiro Tomiyasu returning from injury but now away for the next month, Timber still a while away from making his comeback yet, and Zinchenko potentially joining him on the sidelines, the left-back position suddenly looks very thin,

Recalling Tierney rather than pursuing another left-back also makes sense as the north London side are currently facing challenges with Financial Fair Play (FFP). It had been reported earlier that Arteta is focusing on signing a striker, midfielder and full-back. 

If the Gunners opt to bring back the 26-year-old, it could not only bolster their efforts to navigate Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints but also provide essential reinforcement in the left-back position. Tierney is known for his robust leadership qualities and stands out as a player with the potential to offer crucial guidance. In the current delicate state of the Arsenal side, his leadership skills could prove instrumental in steadying the team. 

Although the Scottish international faced challenges in executing the inverted full-back role, he consistently emerged as a pivotal attacking outlet. The Gunners have been grappling with their offensive dynamics; Tierney's ability to operate down the flank, coupled with his adept ball striking, has the potential to offer a valuable offensive output, particularly in the current circumstances.

Along with left back, the Scottish man can operate in a back three as a left centre-back and also as a left midfielder which brings much-needed versatility to the squad. 

There are no strong reports that suggest Arsenal are interested in recalling Tierney. However, it is an option that should be considered by the club, especially if they are to sign another attacker or midfielder.