William Saliba defends Arsenal star after heavy criticism over key moment during Sporting draw

William Saliba has defended Arsenal team-mate Jakub Kiwior after the signing was criticized for his performance in January’s 2-2 draw with Sporting CP. Kiwior completed a £21m move from Spezia to the Emirates Stadium and made his full Gunners debut against Sporting on Thursday night.

The Poland centre-back has impressed for Arsenal U21s, although breaking into the first-team has been difficult given the strong partnership between Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes. Kiwior was criticized for his role in Sporting’s first-half equalizer after he appeared to duck the ball and Goncalo Inacio released the header for the hosts.

Asked if the 23-year-old shied away from fighting for the ball and allowed Inacio to score in his post-match press conference, Arteta replied: “I don’t know what it was. It happened in a split second, but for sure no one can have a free header and concede a goal in this space.

READ MORE: What Oleksandr Zinchenko did to Sporting CP star in Arsenal Europa League round of 16

Despite a shaky debut for the Gunners, Kiwior’s centre-back has now defended him, with Saliba admitting he thought the young Polish defender had played well. “He played his first game well and for me it’s my first time playing with him and we did well,” said Saliba.

“Unfortunately, we conceded two goals, but it’s ok, we played well and that’s good. We trained a lot together, we always change teams in training, so we played well together and it wasn’t bad with him to play.” first time.”

Kiwior has been praised by fans for his passing ability but his performance against Sporting could suggest he needs to improve his decision making and physicality – something Saliba did during his loan spells away from Emirates Stadium and is now reaping the rewards. Arsenal fans have clung to Kiwior after the result as the Gunners now focus on the Premier League title race ahead of their second leg at the Emirates Stadium next Thursday.

One Arsenal fan tweeted: “Away at Sporting Lisbon is not an easy game to make your debut. Jakub Kiwior will only get better *love heart emoji*.”