Jakub’s ladder to the pinnacle
Ten Hag won’t be held hostage to United’s recent trophy drought N FOREST v MAN UNITED
ARSENAL’S new £20million defender Jakub Kiwior has described his move to the Emirates as the “pinnacle” of his career so far.
The 22-year-old, who made 39 league appearances for Italian Serie A side Spezia after joining in the summer of 2021, is the Gunners’ second signing of the January transfer window after Belgium winger Leandro Trossard.
A left-sided centre-back, Kiwior (right) will provide competition for William Saliba and Gabriel in the heart of defence as Arsenal hunt their first Premier League title since 2004.
Shirt
“When I saw my name on an Arsenal shirt for the first time, I just laughed!” said Kiwior.
“I was so happy to see my name on the shirt of such a huge club.
“For me, it’s an incredibly happy moment and the pinnacle to play for such a big club.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing in the Premier League.
“I knew it wouldn’t be easy, and if I got the chance, then I knew I’d have to make the most of it because it was one of my biggest dreams. For me, it’s the best league. I’m thrilled to be here.” The Poland international, who was in the stands for Arsenal’s 3-2 win over Manchester United on Sunday, added: “It’s huge for me that Arsenal were interested and that I’m able to be here.
“I’m aware that Arsenal are a massive club in a top league, so I didn’t really have to think about much else. I was just ecstatic and really wanted to come.
“I love passing the ball, I like teams that move the ball and try to create chances that way. So, I’m happy that I’ve come to a team like that.”
STEVE COOPER is proud of the way Jesse Lingard has opened up about his struggles at Manchester United – and has praised his positive influence at Nottingham Forest. Fit-again Lingard (left) is expected to feature against former club United in tonight’s Carabao Cup semi-final first leg at the City Ground.
Speaking to the Diary of a CEO podcast, Lingard revealed how he drank regularly “to try and take the pain away” during the 2019-20 season when under fire from United fans and dealing with family issues, including his mother’s own depression.
Attitude
The 30-year-old says he chose to join Forest on a free transfer from Old Trafford last summer because they
“showed the love”.
Cooper has hailed the player’s attitude since his arrival at Forest and says he deserves huge credit for his honesty when speaking out.
He said: “We see a really positive guy that is a real good team mate.
“His teamship attributes are excellent. He is really popular.
“Jesse loves training and looking back at his performance with the analysts. He wants to get better.
“He and we have to work really hard to get the best out