Arsenal latest: Bukayo Saka plan clear as Jakub Kiwior reveals 'difficult' Mikel Arteta chat

Arsenal news as on-loan defender Jakub Kiwior reveals the awkward chat he had with Mikel Arteta and a big Bukayo Saka contract update emerges

Mikel Arteta will be mulling over a promising beginning to the campaign for Arsenal as the final international break of 2025 rolls on.

The Gunners were left disappointed by last weekend's 2-2 draw at Sunderland before Manchester City demolished Liverpool 3-0 to reduce the deficit at the summit of the Premier League to four points. Nevertheless, Arteta would have gladly taken such an advantage at this point when the season began.

Arsenal's primary concern remains injuries, with numerous players carrying knocks or still working their way back from lengthy spells on the sidelines. Arteta will be crossing his fingers that his international contingent returns without any fresh problems, particularly with the north London derby against Tottenham looming large. Football.London brings you a round-up of the latest Arsenal news...

Defender's 'difficult' Arteta discussion

Jakub Kiwior has reflected on having a tricky discussion with Arteta about leaving the Gunners. The Polish defender moved to Porto on a season-long loan deal with an option to buy at the close of the transfer window after becoming frustrated with his lack of first-team chances.

Arteta was keen for him to remain and battle for his spot, but ultimately gave way before wishing him well with the Portuguese club. He revealed to Łączy Nas Piłka: "The last one [conversation with Arteta], no [wasn't difficult].

"We already knew then that I would go on loan to Porto. The coach emphasised how big the club was and wished me luck.

"The earlier conversation, when I asked for the loan, was more difficult. I'd never done this before [asked to leave], but I felt the time had come to speak with him face-to-face. He understood me and supported me."

The 25-year-old doesn't believe he has taken a backward step by moving to Porto, explaining: "As for Arsenal and Porto, league-wise, it might seem like a step back, but club-wise, it's absolutely not.

"At Porto, I have what I lacked in London: regular playing time. I feel great here. I have people I trust around me. In the case of Porto, there wasn't much to analyse. Anyone interested in football knows how big a club it is."

Saka plan clear as talks continue

Arsenal and Bukayo Saka remain aligned when it comes to the winger's future plans, reports Fabrizio Romano. The Gunners academy graduate and his camp are maintaining dialogue with the club regarding fresh long-term terms.

His existing deal runs until the summer of 2027, with Romano suggesting the England ace could potentially see out his entire club career in north London. Writing for GiveMeSport, the Italian transfer expert revealed: "We can't predict the future, but that is the intention. Saka and Arsenal are very happy together, also for the long-term."

If and when finalised, Saka's new contract is expected to earn the 24-year-old upwards of £300,000 per week.