Mikel Arteta has shared an update on the injuries to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, and it is not good news for Arsenal ahead of the start of the new Premier League season.
The Gunners manager confirmed that both key defenders will miss the opening fixtures following the club’s pre-season clash against Borussia Dortmund.
Arteta provides William Saliba and Jurrien Timber injury update
Arsenal will be forced to kick off their domestic campaign without half of their first-choice back four after Arteta delivered a concerning update on the duo’s recovery timelines.
Speaking after Sunday’s pre-season match, the Spanish head coach admitted that neither player is close to returning to full team training.
“I cannot be very precise with that,” Arteta said regarding Timber’s status (quotes via Daily Mail).
“Jurrien is progressing really well, he’s on the pitch, he’s doing quite a lot right now, but is still weeks away. I cannot say how much.”
Updating on Saliba’s setback, Arteta explained: “William is in rest mode at the moment. For two weeks he had to do almost nothing, don’t aggravate the injury. It’s going to take some time to heal, we know that. As quick as we have more news we can inform.”
Reflecting on the absence of both defenders, Arteta acknowledged the scale of the blow to his backline. “We have experienced that in the past, unfortunately. When he’s been available, his stats are incredible. We know that we have lost an incredible player. Same with Jurrien. We need to improve with the players that we have.”
Could Arsenal sign another centre-back?
With key structural figures sidelined, speculation is mounting that Arsenal could enter the transfer market for emergency defensive reinforcements before the summer window closes.
Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa has emerged as a potential target due to his proven Premier League experience and adaptability across the backline.
In a more surprising rumor, reports have also touted Tottenham defender Cristian Romero as a target, though orchestrating a deal between the North London rivals would present significant negotiating hurdles.
Regardless of the target, Arteta may be forced to act swiftly to ensure sufficient depth across his back four.
The post Mikel Arteta confirms Arsenal injury blow as two key players set to miss start of season appeared first on CaughtOffside.
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