Watch Everton vs. Arsenal live on Sky Sports Premier League from 4pm on Sunday; kickoff is at 4.30pm. January signing Jakub Kiwior spoke to Sky Sports about adjusting to Arsenal and competing for a spot under manager Mikel Arteta in one of his first significant interviews.
Nine months have passed since Jakub Kiwior joined Arsenal, but the soft-spoken center-back still smiles when he remembers his dazzling £20 million move from Spezia, where he traded a Serie A relegation fight for a Premier League title quest.
“My emotions were overwhelming, ever since I heard the rumors about Arsenal being interested in me. That interest alone meant a lot to me personally. After successfully signing the contract, I’m very happy”.
“At first, I wanted to play as soon as possible, but I was reassured that I had to calm down, I needed time to stabilize first. Those two months were very important, a big change happened to me. I just need to focus my efforts on the training field and get used to my personal life. Finally, the opportunity for me to play on the field comes, it is a precious time.”
“I’m very happy to hear positive words of encouragement from my coach. It helps me strengthen my confidence. But I also try not to think too much about it [praise], because I know sometimes it can reflect. function”.
“I, like other players, have shared that the relationship between us and the coach is great, compatible with his tactics. Mikel conveys ideas very well. Sincerely even when having to find something I can’t find anything negative to say about him.”
“At Arsenal there are many good players with a high level of competition. I am happy to be able to compete alongside such quality players. Even if I am not chosen to start, I will still do my best “.
“I’m happy to be able to help the team, so I don’t consider competition a bad thing for me.”
“I love and play best as a central defender, but the coach is the one who decides where I play. Before each match, I am always informed about the position I play. Now it is not important to me. Also, I’m happy as long as I’m on the field.”