Arteta Faces Right-Back Crisis as Timber Nears Return -

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a cautiously optimistic update on Jurrien Timber’s recovery, as the Gunners battle a defensive crisis at a critical stage of the season.

Timber, who has been sidelined with a groin injury, is now making steady progress and could return before the campaign ends.

His potential comeback comes at a crucial time following Ben White’s season-ending knee injury, which has left Arsenal short of natural options at right-back.

Arteta confirmed that while Timber is improving, his availability remains uncertain:

“He’s feeling better and progressing, but we have to see how far we can push it. There is a chance he plays again this season.”

With Arsenal still chasing Premier League glory and preparing for a UEFA Champions League final clash against Paris Saint-Germain on May 30, squad depth and adaptability have become key themes for the Spanish tactician.

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White’s absence has forced Arteta to rethink his defensive structure. Young defender Cristhian Mosquera is currently the most natural replacement, but Arteta has also experimented with unconventional options like Declan Rice and Riccardo Calafiori in the role.

However, Calafiori is now a doubt after picking up an injury, further complicating selection decisions ahead of Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League fixtures against Burnley and Crystal Palace.

“We need to find solutions. We’ve dealt with similar challenges all season and still performed consistently,” Arteta stated.

Despite mounting pressure from title rivals, Arteta remains fully focused on Arsenal’s next match, refusing to be distracted by permutations in the title race.

Victory against Burnley would tighten Arsenal’s grip at the top and pile pressure on their closest challengers.

The Arsenal boss emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum:
“The team is in a very good emotional state. The energy is right, and the players are fully focused on finishing the season strongly.”