Arteta unsure if key duo will feature again this season

Credit: Getty Images

Mikel Arteta has admitted uncertainty over whether Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino will return to action before the season concludes, with both players facing prolonged recoveries from their respective injuries.

Timber has been absent for 11 consecutive matches since mid-March, dealing with what sources suggest is either a groin, pelvic, or ankle-related issue. The Dutch defender was a regular starter before his setback, having previously undergone ankle surgery following last season’s Champions League semi-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

Merino’s timeline has been even more challenging. The Spanish midfielder was still on crutches at the end of March, though he has recently returned to grass work away from the main training group.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s clash with West Ham, Arteta confirmed neither player would be available for the weekend fixture. When pressed on their potential return this campaign, the manager was candid about the uncertainty surrounding both cases.

“No chance for the weekend. I don’t know [if they’ll play this season], there’s still a fair bit to do,” Arteta told reporters. “Everything has to be so smooth and quick if they want to have a chance to play any minutes.”

The Arsenal boss specifically acknowledged that Timber’s recovery has taken longer than anticipated, describing it as “the most difficult thing to manage with the player, with myself as well, because we didn’t expect to take so long.”

White-Saka partnership rekindled

Timber’s absence has allowed Ben White to reclaim his place as Arsenal’s first-choice right-back. After a challenging start to the campaign, the England international has rediscovered his form, particularly benefiting from Bukayo Saka’s return to fitness.

Arteta praised the renewed understanding between the pair, noting their limited minutes together earlier in the season due to various circumstances. “They have a really good connection, really good understanding, they have played many years together, and you can sense and notice that in a really positive way.”

The timing of these injuries is particularly concerning given the upcoming World Cup, which begins in just over a month. Both Timber and Merino will be desperate to prove their fitness for international selection.

Squad depth providing hope

Despite the frustrating injury situation, Arteta highlighted the improved squad depth compared to the same stage last season, when several key players were struggling through matches. Arsenal have reportedly commissioned an independent review of their injury record this campaign.

With four matches remaining and increased recovery time between fixtures, the manager expressed optimism about his available options. “It was great to witness the quality that we had on the bench the other night. If you compare that to a year ago, that’s a very different picture.”

Arsenal’s title hopes may depend on maintaining this improved fitness record through the campaign’s final stretch, with both Timber and Merino likely to play supporting roles from the sidelines as the season reaches its climax.