NewKerala.com

Arteta Provides Encouraging Jurrien Timber Fitness Update Amid Defensive Crisis

Mikel Arteta has provided an encouraging update on Jurrien Timber, who is pushing hard to return from injury before the end of the season. Timber has been sidelined since March with a problem suffered against Everton. Arteta praised Timber's attitude and progress, saying he is doing everything possible to help the team. Arsenal's defensive crisis has deepened with Ben White ruled out for the season and Riccardo Calafiori a doubt for the upcoming clash against Burnley.

Key Points: Arteta: Timber Doing Everything to Return for Arsenal

  • Jurrien Timber sidelined since March with injury
  • Arteta says Timber is working relentlessly to speed up comeback
  • Ben White ruled out for season with knee injury
  • Calafiori doubtful for Burnley clash
  • Arsenal fighting for Premier League title and Champions League final
2 min read

'He's doing everything he possibly can': Arteta provides fitness update on Timber

Mikel Arteta says Jurrien Timber is pushing hard to regain fitness before the end of Arsenal's campaign. The defender is recovering from an injury suffered in March.

"He's feeling better and improving little by little. We are trying to get him available as quickly as we can - Mikel Arteta"

London, May 14

Mikel Arteta, manager of West London club Arsenal, has revealed that Jurrien Timber is pushing hard to regain fitness before the end of the club's campaign, with the defender continuing his recovery from injury.

Timber has been sidelined since March after suffering a problem during Arsenal's victory over Everton, forcing him off before half-time. His absence has created a growing concern for the Gunners, especially at right-back, where injuries have further stretched Arteta's defensive options.

The Arsenal boss admitted the Dutch international remains determined to return as soon as possible and has stayed closely involved with the squad despite being unavailable for selection.

Arteta said Timber has shown encouraging progress in recent days and is working relentlessly behind the scenes to speed up his comeback. "He's feeling better and improving little by little. We are trying to get him available as quickly as we can, but we still have to see how things develop," Arteta told reporters on Thursday.

The Spaniard also praised Timber's attitude during rehabilitation, highlighting the defender's influence within the group even while injured. "He's an extremely important player for us," Arteta added. "Everyone knows the quality and leadership he brings to the team, and he's doing absolutely everything possible to help."

Arsenal's defensive worries have deepened with Ben White ruled out for the remainder of the season because of a knee ligament injury. Meanwhile, Riccardo Calafiori also picked up a concern after being substituted at half-time during Arsenal's recent win over West Ham.

Arteta admitted it remains unclear whether Calafiori will recover in time for Arsenal's upcoming clash against Burnley, although initial signs suggest the issue may not be serious.

With injuries piling up in defence, Arteta hinted that Cristhian Mosquera could be considered as an alternative option, while also stressing the need for tactical flexibility during the closing weeks of the season.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are in a neck-to-neck fight with Manchester City in the Premier League 2025-26 title race. They are also preparing for the UEFA Champions League final to be played against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on May 30.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

V
Vikram M
As an Arsenal fan from Mumbai, this injury crisis is really testing our depth. Ben White out for the season is a huge blow. Hope Mosquera gets a chance—he's looked solid in the few appearances he's made. Come on you Gunners! 🏆
M
Michael C
Classic Arteta—keeping things close to his chest. Timber's attitude is undeniable, but let's be real: rushing him for the Burnley game would be madness. We need him fully fit for the UCL final against PSG. That's the real prize this season.
P
Priya S
I'm just glad Arteta is not throwing players under the bus. Timber's leadership even while injured is exactly why we signed him. But with City breathing down our necks, we need every fit player available. Fingers crossed Calafiori's issue is minor! 🤞
J
James A
Timber pushing hard is great, but I worry about our defensive setup. Partey at right-back? That didn't work last time. Arteta's tactical flexibility better include some creative solutions. We can't afford to drop points now—every match is a final.
R
Rohit P
Respect to Timber for his dedication. But Arteta needs to be smarter—we saw what happened when we rushed players back last season. Let the man recover fully. We have enough quality to beat Burnley without him. Think long-term! 🛡️

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50