Jurrien Timber is back in the Arsenal squad for the club's Champions League opener away to Napoli this week. The 25-year-old right-back has been included in the travelling party after missing the start of the Premier League season, as reported by The Athletic.
Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, confirmed the defender's availability before Sunday's 2-1 win over Chelsea. "(Jurrien) is in really good condition," Arteta said. "He's been on the pitch for a few weeks and training with us, so he's in a good place." Timber's return is a significant boost as Arsenal sit second in the Premier League with nine points from three wins, having scored six goals and conceded just one. Their next league fixture is away to Sunderland on September 12.
What does Timber's return mean for Arsenal's defence?
Timber's comeback provides Arteta with two elite options at right-back, a luxury the squad has rarely enjoyed. Ben White has excelled at the start of the campaign, but his history of knee surgery and setbacks means his fitness must be managed. Timber himself suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in the 2023-24 season, which also ruled him out of the Netherlands' World Cup squad. Having both players fully fit simultaneously strengthens Arsenal's defensive depth considerably, especially with a congested schedule that includes midweek European football. You can view the full defensive options on the club's squad page.
How has Timber worked his way back to fitness?
The Dutch international's path back began with light training at the start of Arsenal's pre-season in July. He has been integrated with the wider group for several weeks leading up to the Napoli fixture. His last competitive start for the Gunners was in the Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in May 2024. This careful rehabilitation process appears to have paid off, with Arteta now confident in his condition for a return to match action. His availability is timely, coming just as Arsenal begin their European campaign.
Who else is in the squad for the Napoli game?
Alongside Timber, 17-year-old Marli Salmon has been named in the travelling group. Salmon, who signed a professional contract on his 17th birthday in August, made four first-team appearances last season. His inclusion offers further youth depth. Meanwhile, defender Cristhian Mosquera stayed in England and missed the recent wins over Aston Villa and Chelsea. In central defence, Ezri Konsa made a strong full debut against Chelsea and is likely to retain his place in Naples. The full fixtures list shows a busy period ahead for the squad.
Where does this leave Arsenal's season outlook?
Timber's return bolsters a squad that has started the league campaign perfectly. With a goal difference of +5 from their opening three games, the defensive solidity has been a foundation. Adding a player of Timber's quality for the Champions League, a competition where he has final experience, is a major positive. It allows for rotation and tactical flexibility, which is essential for competing on multiple fronts. The team's current standings position reflects a strong start, and maintaining that will require a fully-fit squad. Arsenal's opening Champions League group game is against Napoli in a midweek fixture.
