Jakub Kiwior steps up for Arsenal in crucial Champions League clash against Real Madrid

Ahead of Arsenal's high-stakes Champions League showdown with Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium, there was plenty of discussion about who would slot in alongside William Saliba at the heart of the defence.

Gabriel Magalhaes was ruled out for the rest of the season after sustaining a hamstring injury against Fulham, which left Mikel Arteta with a big decision to make. While Ben White was floated as an option to move centrally, it was Jakub Kiwior who got the nod.

Despite limited minutes this season and reported interest in leaving the club, Kiwior was trusted to start in arguably Arsenal's most significant match of the campaign. The result? A clean sheet and a solid defensive performance, even if it took him some time to settle into the game.

Mixed reactions from Spain on Kiwior vs. Mbappe
Spanish media outlets gave a varied assessment of Kiwior’s display, particularly in his battle with the ever-dangerous Kylian Mbappe. While Bukayo Saka earned widespread praise, Kiwior received more reserved reviews.

Goal Spain rated the Polish defender a 6/10, stating: “Arsenal fans’ fears were almost realized in the first half when he made a series of erroneous passes that gave Real Madrid chances. However, he improved after the break and was more confident after the break.”

In contrast, Mundo Deportivo offered a more positive perspective, describing Kiwior’s performance as “safe” and noting: “Pointed out as a weak point because he is not a regular starter, he surprised everyone.”

Arteta’s faith in Kiwior pays off
After impressing in the Premier League against Everton, Kiwior seems to have cemented his spot in the starting XI during a critical stretch of the season. Arteta had recently said that Kiwior was eager for the chance to face Real Madrid—and he delivered when it counted.

With the second leg looming at the Santiago Bernabeu, it will be intriguing to see if Arteta rotates his lineup against Brentford this weekend. Given his recent form, Kiwior will likely retain his place as Arsenal look to carry momentum into Madrid.

The Gunners are in a strong position, but they’ll need to be sharp to see off a seasoned side under Carlo Ancelotti’s guidance. The job is only half done.