Kieran Tierney has broken his silence over his recent loan move to Real Sociedad from Arsenal, sharing that his quest for regular first-team action instigated the move.

• Kieran Tierney cites limited game time as the main reason for his loan move to Real Sociedad.
• A failed permanent move to Newcastle led to Tierney’s loan deal.
• Martin Odegaard influenced Tierney’s decision, speaking highly of Real Sociedad.

Kieran Tierney’s search for game time

Kieran Tierney’s ambition for more pitch time was stifled last season due to Oleksandr Zinchenko’s arrival at Arsenal.

With only six starts in the Premier League during the 2022-23 season, the defender found himself sidelined, further fuelling his desire to seek greener pastures.

“I left because last season I couldn’t play a lot and what I wanted was to play a lot of games and I wanted to try to do it at Real Sociedad,” Tierney explained.

The failed move to Newcastle

Initially, Arsenal had considered selling Tierney on a permanent basis.

However, a mooted move to Newcastle United crumbled, leading the club to opt for a season-long loan for the defender.

Tierney disclosed that he harbours ‘no problem’ with the Gunners and that the need for regular football was the primary force behind his decision.

“I don’t have any problem with Arsenal. Knowing that Real Sociedad wanted to have me here, feeling all the love from the people here was very good,” said Tierney during his presentation at Real Sociedad.

Guidance from his captain

Martin Odegaard, the Arsenal captain, also played a role in Tierney’s decision.

“Martin said the fans and people are so good and really welcoming and you will love your time here,” revealed Tierney.

Odegaard himself had a loan spell at the Spanish club.

Tierney at Real Sociedad: What to expect?

While being unveiled at Real Sociedad, Tierney expressed excitement about his new venture.

“Being in the Basque Country, having the experience of living here and playing in La Liga, is something I am very proud of. I hope things will go very well for me here,” Tierney said.

“The club is in a good place, especially over the last few seasons and this season the Champions League, so it is an amazing club.”

Tierney’s injury problems

Tierney’s Arsenal tenure was plagued by recurrent injuries, restricting him to 124 appearances over four seasons.

These setbacks, coupled with the club’s readiness to sever ties, contributed to the loan agreement.

Tierney’s long-term Arsenal future

The loan deal comes with a £1.2m fee, while Real Sociedad will cover Tierney’s £110kpw wages.

He still has two more years on his contract with Arsenal, leaving the door ajar for a potential return.