Jurrien Timber has warned that he is not yet fully match fit as Arsenal prepare to manage his return from a groin injury carefully.
The Dutch defender has begun rebuilding his playing time after missing much of the closing stages of Arsenal’s title-winning campaign. However, he recognises that an overly rapid comeback could risk another setback.
Jurrien Timber urges caution over Arsenal return
“I have to be very smart about the steps we take,” Timber said. “Otherwise, I’ll suffer a setback, and I don’t want that.”
He added: “I want to play every game and take part in every training session. However, the physios advise me on what is best for me. So, I need to listen to them carefully.”
Timber came on as a substitute during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Sunderland before playing 59 minutes in the defeat by Brighton. He then joined up with the Netherlands, featuring for 77 minutes against Greece and making a brief appearance against Serbia.
The defender’s cautious approach follows a difficult period with the same groin problem, which also ruled him out of the 2026 World Cup.
Arsenal are expected to continue managing Timber’s workload when they return to Premier League action against Leeds United. His minutes were already handled carefully during the international break, with the player acknowledging that he was still feeling the effects of his lay-off.
Timber’s return offers Mikel Arteta greater flexibility in defence, but Arsenal’s priority will be ensuring he can build towards full fitness without suffering a further interruption.
