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Spain’s media deliver their Jakub Kiwior verdict after watching Arsenal defender vs Kylian Mbappe

Lucas Arnold

Wed 9 April 2025 8:55, UK

Before Arsenal met Real Madrid at the Emirates Stadium, there was considerable debate surrounding who would partner William Saliba.

Gabriel Magalhaes was obviously absent for Arsenal owing to a season-ending hamstring injury he recently suffered against Fulham.

And whilst Jakub Kiwior was his obvious replacement – a left-footed centre-back, some were calling for Ben White to be used centrally.

Kiwior wants to leave Arsenal owing to his lack of chances this season, but he was ultimately needed for their biggest game in recent history at the Emirates Stadium.

The result? A resounding clean sheet for Mikel Arteta’s side and his faith in Kiwior was rewarded, even if the Poland international had a slightly shaky start to the game.

Spain’s media rate Jakub Kiwior against Kylian Mbappe

That being said, the Spanish press gave mixed reviews of Kiwior’s display when reflecting on the game.

Bukayo Saka was celebrated by the Spanish media, however, Kiwior wasn’t deemed quite so convincing when up against Kylian Mbappe.

READ MORE: Declan Rice makes comment about West Ham after scoring two free-kicks for Arsenal vs Real Madrid

Sharing their verdict, in Spain gave Kiwior a 6/10 and wrote: “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.”

For context, the same outlet gave Saliba and Myles Lewis-Skelly 8/10, two mesmeric displays.

Fortunately, were a bit more positive about Kiwior’s efforts.

The outlet summarised Kiwior’s performance as ‘safe’ and pointed to how he ‘surprised everyone’.

In a brief review they wrote: “Pointed out as a weak point because he is not a regular starter, he surprised everyone.”

Mikel Arteta was right about Jakub Kiwior

Kiwior impressed against Everton last weekend and he seemingly has now nailed down his starting role for whatever remains this season.

Arteta said Kiwior couldn’t wait to play Real Madrid recently and the Arsenal defender certainly didn’t disappoint, even if he did need a minute to find his feet.

Of course, it will now be interesting to see how and to what degree Arteta will shuffle his pack against Brentford this weekend before heading to Spain next week.

One would imagine that Kiwior would still start so he can build momentum ahead of a tough test at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Arsenal are halfway there, but you can never underestimate the strength of Carlo Ancelotti’s side in a Champions League second leg.