Jakub Kiwior insists his move from Arsenal to FC Porto was his decision alone, rejecting claims that he was unwanted in north London.
The Polish defender says Mikel Arteta wanted him to stay, but he chose to leave in search of regular football.
“I laughed at the news that I was unwanted at Arsenal, they just didn’t want to let me leave,” Kiwior told TVP Sport. “I explained it to the coach and he understood my aspirations, thanking me for the way I behaved. I never felt unwanted at Arsenal, nor did I have any reason to feel I was being pushed around.
“The decision to leave was entirely mine. I wanted to be a starter, but with Gabriel and Saliba in front of me, the chances were small.”
Kiwior, who joined Arsenal from Spezia in January 2023, left for Porto on loan until 2026 with an obligation to buy worth €17m plus add-ons.
Since arriving in Portugal, he has become a fixture in Francesco Farioli’s defence, forming an unbeaten partnership with Jan Bednarek that has impressed both domestically and in Europe.
“I don’t think I took a step back,” he said. “FC Porto have a lot in common with Arsenal. They are great clubs, with great aspirations, fantastic fans and history. Coming from Arsenal, there couldn’t be a big ‘wow’ effect, but when we visited the museum, met club legends and saw films from the past, I realised I’d come to a really big club with huge traditions.”
The 25-year-old credits Porto’s persistence in securing his signature. “They contacted me every day, they fought with all their might, I saw that they cared. They didn’t give up and they didn’t lose heart, despite Arsenal’s many refusals,” he explained.
“They pursued their goal and achieved it.”
Kiwior’s transition to life in Portugal has been smooth. “We have found a fantastic dressing room, and everyone is helping us in every way. After a month, I feel like I’ve been here for years,” he said.
His partnership with Bednarek has been another key factor. “In the Portuguese championship games, I could close my eyes and know where Janek is when we have possession of the ball. The chemistry we have created at the club can, in certain situations, be transported to the international context.”
Porto’s Polish connection has also eased the move. “It makes everything simpler for us because they already know the kind of people we are,” Kiwior added. “I hope we continue like this and achieve success. The goal is to regain the Portuguese championship.”
For Kiwior, who left London with Arteta’s blessing, Porto represents not a demotion but a chance to redefine himself. “I was convinced by their determination,” he said. “At Arsenal, I was respected, but here I feel trusted. I wanted to play, to prove myself, and I think I’ve found the perfect place to do that.”