Kiwior shines at FC Porto, no yellow cards in 19 matches | OneFootball

One of FC Porto’s major ‘upgrades’ this season has been the quality of their summer transfer signings, especially in the central axis of defense. Bednarek, Prpic, and, in particular, Kiwior have brought greater security to a sector that is essential to Francesco Farioli’s defensive approach, something that is reflected in the team’s statistics for 2025/2026.

Among those who have shone the most, Kiwior stands out. The 25-year-old center-back arrived at Dragão from Arsenal on loan until June 30, 2026, for a fee of two million euros. The agreement with the ‘Gunners’ includes an option for the definitive purchase of his registration rights and 100% of his economic rights for €17 million, plus a maximum variable amount of €5 million subject to objectives. This clause can be triggered by either FC Porto or Arsenal, who will also retain a fixed amount of €2 million in the event of a future sale.

It is a significant investment that the board, presided over by André Villas-Boas, will have to make at the end of the season, but Kiwior has lived up to expectations. Since his arrival, he has stood out for his effectiveness on the pitch and for an impressive statistic: in the 19 matches played in 2025/2026 – 14 for FC Porto and five for the Polish national team – he has yet to receive a single yellow card.

The Polish international asserts himself with authority in duels, rarely resorts to fouling, and looks to play out from the back, benefiting from a passing ability above the average for center-backs playing in Portugal. His arrival has raised the level of the national league: he left London in search of more minutes, despite Mikel Arteta’s efforts to keep him in the Arsenal squad.

In addition to defensive solidity, Kiwior also offers offensive utility: he is involved in set-piece situations – he played a part in the first goal in the 2-0 win at Tondela – and, thanks to his passing quality, knows how to launch teammates in behind and break down low defensive blocks. The ball almost always leaves his left foot “guided like a missile,” rarely missing a pass or leaving his zone unprotected. From what he has shown since signing for the Dragons, Kiwior is synonymous with security and the investment the board is set to make next summer should translate into sporting returns. He is, without a doubt, a center-back of excellence.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.