Injuries have caused Arsenal huge problems throughout the season.
The Gunners have not had a fully fit squad available at any point during the campaign, but they have still delivered.
Mikel Arteta’s side are currently top of the Premier League table and are also preparing for a Champions League final against PSG in Budapest.
Ideally, Arsenal would love to have every important player available for the final weeks of the season. However, Arteta knows there is one game that matters more than anything else right now – the Champions League final.
That is why Arsenal are being extremely careful with Jurrien Timber.
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Arsenal have a plan for Jurrien Timber’s injury return
Timber has been sidelined for the last couple of months, and Arsenal have clearly missed him.
The Dutchman’s absence has weakened the right side of the defence, especially because of the balance and athleticism he brings to the team.
Few defenders in Europe are as comfortable defending one-v-one situations while also contributing in possession – Timber is one of the best in this department.
That is why the Premier League leaders are refusing to take any unnecessary risks with his recovery.
According to Football Transfers, Arteta and the coaching staff have no intention of rushing Timber back during the remaining Premier League fixtures.
Instead, the entire focus is on ensuring he is fully fit for the Champions League final against PSG.
There is also an awareness inside Arsenal about the specific threat PSG pose in wide areas. Players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are capable of destroying teams on their own, and Arsenal believe Timber gives them their best chance of stopping that danger.
The plan now is simple – manage his recovery carefully and have him ready for the biggest game of the season.
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Arsenal need Jurrien Timber at his best vs PSG
Arteta is absolutely right to avoid taking risks with Timber before the Champions League final.
PSG’s attack is terrifying, especially in wide areas where Kvaratskhelia can completely take over games by himself.
Very few defenders in world football are capable of matching him physically and technically in one-v-one situations.
That is exactly why Timber’s availability could make the difference in Budapest.
If Arsenal have him fit and sharp for the final, they will feel far more confident about dealing with PSG’s biggest attacking threat.
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