Arteta reveals Timber fitness race ahead of Champions League final

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Mikel Arteta has revealed there is a chance Jurriën Timber could return for Arsenal’s Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on 27 May, as the Gunners face a defensive crisis at right-back.

The Netherlands international has not featured since Arsenal’s victory over Everton on 14 March due to a groin injury. Timber was understood to be close to returning at the end of last month before suffering a setback in his recovery.

Speaking ahead of Monday’s Premier League clash with Burnley, Arteta provided an update on the defender’s condition. “He’s progressed a little bit in the last few days; he’s feeling better,” the Arsenal manager said. “We’re going to try to get him available as quickly as possible but he’s obviously been out now for a while, unfortunately.”

Defensive options limited

Arsenal’s defensive options have been severely depleted following the confirmation that Ben White will miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury. The England defender’s problem is also expected to rule him out of the World Cup, although Arteta suggested White must “wait and see” regarding the summer tournament.

With both first-choice right-backs sidelined, Cristhian Mosquera is expected to deputise against Burnley on Monday night. Riccardo Calafiori represents another option after recovering from the knock he sustained during last Sunday’s match at West Ham. The Italian defender previously filled the role during the second half of Arsenal’s victory over PSG in the Champions League group stage.

Crucial final preparation

When pressed on Timber’s chances of facing PSG in Budapest, Arteta remained cautiously optimistic. “There is a chance. But how big that chance is, I cannot tell you. I’m being completely honest. He’s going to try to do everything he can to convert that chance as high as possible in the shortest possible period.”

According to The Guardian, Arteta praised Timber’s influence throughout the season, describing him as “such an important player for us” and highlighting his “leadership, his quality and how much the team needs him.”

The Gunners are preparing to face Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and PSG in what promises to be a defining moment in the club’s European campaign. Arsenal supporters’ group REDaction is planning another major welcome for the team coach ahead of Monday’s Burnley fixture, following the impressive turnout before the Champions League semi-final victory over Atlético Madrid.

Arsenal could re-establish a five-point lead over Manchester City with victory against Burnley, maintaining their push for the Premier League title alongside their European ambitions.