Jakub Kiwior reveals that Arsenal was not his only EPL suitor but was “something special”
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 14: Jakub Kiwior of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on May 14, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior has revealed that he turned down an offer from West Ham United before joining the Gunners in a £20 million transfer deal.
The Poland international arrived at the Emirates Stadium in January and had to patiently wait for an opportunity to make an impression due to the solid partnership formed by Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba last season. However, an injury to Saliba eventually provided Kiwior with a chance to showcase his abilities.
“When I found out about Arsenal(‘s interest), I couldn’t believe it”
Jakub Kiwior vs Germany (16/6/2023) pic.twitter.com/Me0iHyXTaT
— Tev7comps (@lifegunnertev7) June 19, 2023
Reflecting on the offer from Arsenal, Kiwior expressed his excitement, stating, “It was something special, but it’s hard for me to describe it. I was very happy because the best league for me has always been the Premier League, and I really wanted to play there, and when I found out about Arsenal, I couldn’t believe it.”
While Kiwior admitted that playing for Arsenal was not necessarily a childhood dream, he emphasized his desire to play in the Premier League.
Interestingly, the Polish international also revealed that he had rejected an offer from West Ham United before the opportunity to join Arsenal arose. Although West Ham’s offer was not on the table at the time, he appreciated their interest. However, when Arsenal came knocking, Kiwior described it as “something special” for him.
Jakub Kiwior on his January move to Arsenal:
“I had an offer from West Ham United before Arsenal which I turned down. Arsenal weren’t on the table but then they came along and that was something special for me.” pic.twitter.com/o0zPw3UWEC
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) June 23, 2023
Looking ahead, Kiwior is determined to seize his opportunity at Arsenal. With the return of Saliba and the impending arrival of Jurrien Timber, competition for places in defense will intensify next season.
Nonetheless, Kiwior believes he made the right decision to join Arsenal, stating, “I think I’m at the right age for the best moment in my career and to move forward. I’m happy that I changed clubs and got a chance and ended up in the starting lineups. It gave me a lot of confidence, and I felt much better as a player and as a person.”
Kiwior’s journey at Arsenal is only just beginning, but his commitment and ambition suggest that he is ready to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
If the Gunners end up signing Timber from Ajax, Mikel Arteta will have great option to choose from.
