Mikel Arteta reveals Arsenal are pushing to get Jurrien Timber ready for the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on May 30. The defender, who featured in 43 matches across all competitions this season, has missed the last two months due to a groin injury. His most recent appearance came in the 2-0 victory over Everton at the Emirates on March 14, where he exited early in the first half.
Timber’s Intensive Training Push
Arsenal face Burnley on Monday night and Crystal Palace on May 24 before the continental showdown. Arteta shared during Thursday’s press conference: “We will try to prepare Jurrien Timber for participation in the UEFA Champions League final. He is doing his utmost and intensifying his training.”
Right-Back Injury Headache
The Gunners grapple with a shortage at right-back after Ben White suffered a significant medial knee ligament injury in Sunday’s match against West Ham. Arsenal’s official statement confirms: “Subsequent assessments and specialist reviews have ruled White out for the remainder of the season. Our medical team now manages his recovery, aiming for pre-season readiness.”
Arteta addressed the void: “We need to look at alternatives. The two players we have are unavailable, so we must explore other options. The positive is we’ve faced similar issues across positions this season and maintained performance levels.”
He continued: “Different options exist based on the opponent and our tactics. We stay open to two or three possibilities.”
Calafiori Fitness Doubt
Uncertainty also surrounds Riccardo Calafiori’s availability for the Burnley clash. Arteta noted: “We don’t yet know if he will be available. We have several days left and hope the injury proves minor.”
