Scotland defender Kieran Tierney makes loan switch from Arsenal to Real Sociedad

Scotland defender Kieran Tierney has settled his short-term future by signing for Real Sociedad on loan from Arsenal.

The 26-year-old had fallen out of favour under Mikael Arteta at the Emirates and will now spend the season in Spain’s top flight.

Tierney could make his debut for the club at home to Granada next week before joining up with the Scotland squad for the crucial Euro 2024 qualifier against Cyprus and the friendly against England.

“It’s a big change,” the defender told Real Sociedad’s club TV channel. “But it’s something I’m looking forward to so much.

“It’s an exciting challenge and I’m delighted to be here.”

In addition to testing himself against the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid on a regular basis, Tierney will also have the opportunity of playing in the Champions League after Real Sociedad’s fourth place finish last season.

“It’s the biggest tournament for footballers and everyone wants to play in the Champions League,” he added. “I’m excited for this challenge again and I’ll work 100% to have a good season for the fans and for the club.

“I’m ready to go. I’ve been training pre-season with Arsenal and I’ll be ready for the game on Saturday.”

Tierney came through the ranks at Celtic and won eight trophies with his boyhood club before being sold to Arsenal in a club record £25m deal in 2019.

The Scotland star, who has 39 caps, had his first season at the Emirates disrupted by injury but has made over 120 appearances for Arsenal.