Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his admiration for Jurrien Timber’s performances during pre-season. The 23-year-old Dutch international, capable of playing in any defensive position, has been primarily utilised as a centre-back against AFC Bournemouth and Manchester United. This move surprised many fans, as Timber was initially expected to play as a left-back due to Arsenal’s depth in the centre but relative weakness on the left side.
Arteta full of praise for Jurrien Timber
Arteta explained his decision, stating: “Making one change and not two. It’s simple, and as well there is so much chemistry in that right unit. That relationship has been there for a long time and I believe at the moment that it’s better just to touch one thing.
“Now he’s getting the rhythm because obviously he’s missed a lot of football in the last year or so.
“We’ve asked him to play in a different position than we had in mind due to the numbers and the players we have at the moment, but I’m really happy.
“Just look at him, his pressing, his leadership, his composure. He’s like a new signing for us and a big addition to the team.”
Timber’s Importance
Timber joined Arsenal from Ajax last summer for a reported fee of £38.5 million. He impressed during pre-season and started his first two competitive games against Manchester City (in the Community Shield) and Nottingham Forest as a left-back. However, disaster struck in the Premier League opener against Forest, where Timber suffered an ACL injury in the 50th minute, effectively ruling him out for the entire season.
Currently, Timber appears to be in good shape and is expected to be in contention to start against Wolverhampton Wanderers on the opening day of the upcoming Premier League season. His presence in the squad adds significant depth to all defensive positions, which is crucial for Arsenal as they aim for success across all four competitions they are participating in this season. With the number of games the Gunners will have to play this season, having Timber allows Arteta to rest star defenders Gabriel and William Saliba without having to worry about a dip in quality in the backline.
Jurrien Timber also offers a lot of tactical flexibility to Arteta. Having the 23-year-old allows him to try different tactics and shapes due to his fluid fit in the backline. Perhaps most importantly, the Dutch international gives Arteta the freedom to tinker with the shape in-game. Mikel Arteta could start Timber as a left-back but could use him as a third centre-back mid-game if Arsenal shift to play with a back three. Timber also adds a lot of unpredictability in the game, capable of playing as a traditional full-back or even inverting when he sees space. His bursting runs through the center while playing as a left-back were particularly tricky for the opposition to deal with.
Overall, Timber’s presence in the team will give Arsenal a lot of quality depth while adding a lot of tactical versatility to the team.
