Kieran Tierney is set to make a much-anticipated return to Celtic, having signed a pre-contract agreement that will see him rejoin the club in July 2025. Tierney, who rose through the Celtic academy, initially left the Scottish giants for Arsenal in a £25 million deal in 2017. As he prepares to return, Tierney has accumulated 129 appearances for Arsenal, contributing five goals and thirteen assists across all competitions.
Tierney's journey with Arsenal has seen him play an instrumental role, although game time has reduced this season. He has made just five appearances, with only one starting position against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup. Despite Celtic's interest in securing Tierney on loan during the January transfer window, Arsenal decided to keep him at the Emirates Stadium until the conclusion of the 2024/25 campaign.
The decision to wait until the summer is part of a strategic plan by Celtic. The club aims to complete the acquisition of Tierney following thorough negotiations. Celtic's manager, Brendan Rodgers, confirmed the pre-agreement last month, emphasizing the club's intent to bring Tierney back into their ranks.
"Ideally it would [happen in January] but, at this moment, he’s still an Arsenal player." – Brendan Rodgers
"I think everyone is agreed that it will definitely take place in the summer. If we can do it beforehand, then great." – Brendan Rodgers
Tierney's career at Celtic was marked by success and loyalty. Before his departure to Arsenal, he made 170 appearances for the club, establishing himself as a key player. The current negotiations underscore Celtic's desire to reintegrate Tierney into their squad, viewing his return as a significant boost to their future campaigns.
Despite efforts to expedite his move back to Celtic Park earlier this year, the deal did not materialize in January. However, Tierney's eventual return is set to invigorate the team and excite fans who have long cherished his contributions on the field.
“I don’t know. I think that, like I said, we’d prepared that for the summer. And I don’t want to speak too much on it, with the greatest respect, because he’s not a Celtic player here now with us.” – Brendan Rodgers
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