Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Jurrien Timber will be in the squad for Arsenal’s opening game of the season against Wolves. The Holland international had picked up a minor foot problem during the team’s tour of the USA, forcing him to miss some friendlies as a precautionary measure. However, it’s great to hear that he’s fully fit and ready to play now.
After suffering a near season-ending injury last season, Timber has certainly had his fair share of struggles. It’s inspiring to see him back on the pitch and eager to make a comeback. Arteta expressed his confidence in Timber, stating that he has used his time wisely to improve and that he will have a chance to showcase his abilities in the upcoming game.
Fabio Vieira, another player who had missed the Emirates Cup due to a hip problem, was also a topic of discussion. Arteta mentioned that they would need to check on his condition after training, but he seemed optimistic about Vieira’s recovery progress. It’s crucial for the team to have all their key players fit and available for selection.
Unfortunately, there was some bad news regarding Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney. Both players will be sidelined for the next few weeks due to injuries. Tomiyasu is dealing with a knee issue, while Tierney is recovering from a hamstring tear suffered during Euro 2024. Arteta emphasized the importance of supporting Tierney during this tough time and ensuring that he comes back fit and ready to compete.
Arsenal faces a tough start in the Premier League, with challenging fixtures against the likes of Aston Villa, Manchester City, and Sp*rs in the opening six weeks. To prepare for this tough run of games, the club decided to recall certain players earlier than expected from their post-Euro 2024 holidays. Despite some criticism, Arteta defended the decision, stating that it was necessary to find the right schedule for the players and ensure they were ready for the upcoming challenges.
Overall, it’s clear that Arteta and Arsenal are focused on getting their players fit and prepared for the demanding season ahead. With Timber back in the squad and other players making progress in their recoveries, fans can look forward to an exciting start to the season with hopes of success on the horizon.
