Arsenal fans will love what Zinchenko did with Kiwior

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 27 Jan 2023 12:32 GMT
• 4 min read

Arsenal sit top of the Premier League with 50 points from 19 games for many reasons, but in addition to the quality of the players they have, they also have fantastic team spirit as was shown by Oleksandr Zinchenko’s gesture to Jakub Kiwior after the win over Manchester United.

The Gunners secured a 3-2 victory over the Red Devils at home on Sunday, which was seen as a pivotal victory as they chase the Premier League title.

A double from Eddie Nketiah, including a last-gasp winner, allied to a strike from Bukayo Saka to secure the win for Mikel Arteta’s side, who were understandably jubilant at full-time.

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But while the scenes in the dressing room were raucous, Zinchenko made sure not to forget new signing Kiwior, who had only been watching the match unfold from the stands having completed a move from Spezia.

Kiwior’s agent, Pawel Zimonczyk explained to Dominik Watorski how the centre-back was immediately made to feel welcome by his new team-mates.

He revealed: "Zinchenko dragged Jakub into the changing room after the game against Man United. His entrance wasn’t planned, but as soon as Zinchenko saw him, he called out: ‘If you’re already with us, you’re already with us.’”

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The incident is just another that underlines the outstanding bond that Arteta has helped to forge amongst this Arsenal squad, which now holds a healthy five-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the table with a game in hand.

Kiwior was the Gunners’ second signing of the January transfer window, with Leandro Trossard having joined up from Brighton just a matter of days beforehand.

Kiwior on Arsenal move

Completing his transfer to Arsenal was a huge moment for Kiwior.

He said: “When I saw my name on an Arsenal shirt for the first time, I just laughed! 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 dreamt 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.

“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.

“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.”

Kiwior could make his Arsenal debut against Manchester City in the FA Cup on Friday.