Arsenal may consider an early recall of a loaned defender

Arsenal might consider an early termination of Kieran Tierney's loan at Real Sociedad, bringing the left-back back in January. The loan agreement of the Scottish player with the Spanish club extends until summer.

Mikel Arteta might contemplate this decision due to the injury to the primary left-back, Alexander Zinchenko.

It is worth recalling that Zinchenko was omitted from the Gunners' squad against Fulham (1-2) due to a calf muscle injury. The return timeline for the Ukrainian remains uncertain. Lately, Zinchenko's performance has faced criticism from English football pundits for its inconsistency.

Tierney joined Arsenal in 2019. In recent seasons, he faced tough competition on the left defensive flank, leading to his loan move to Spain at the start of this season. While at Real Sociedad, the Scottish player participated in 11 matches across various competitions.

Arsenal has been winless in the Premier League for three consecutive matches. Starting the new year, Mikel Arteta's squad occupies fourth place in the league standings. On January 7th, the Gunners will face Liverpool in the FA Cup.

Currently occupying the third position in Serie A after 18 rounds, AC Milan is set to play against Cagliari in the round of 16 of the Coppa Italia on January 2nd under Stefano Pioli's management.