Jurrien Timber is part of the Arsenal squad travelling to Italy for their opening Champions League fixture against Napoli.The right-back, 25, has been recovering from an ongoing groin issue since March, which ruled him out of the Netherlands World Cup squad despite starting Arsenal’s Champions League final defeat by Paris Saint-Germain in May.Timber returned to light training sessions at the start of Arsenal’s pre-season in July, but has been eased back to working with the wider group in the weeks since.“(Jurrien) is in really good condition,” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said before Sunday’s 2-1 win over Chelsea. “He’s been on the pitch for a few weeks and training with us, so he’s in a good place.”Marli Salmon, 17, has also been included in the travelling group with fellow defender Cristhian Mosquera staying in England. Mosquera was taken off as a precaution in Arsenal’s 1-0 win away to Aston Villa on August 31, and missed the win against Chelsea.
Salmon made four first-team appearances last term and impressed in pre-season, but new signing Ezri Konsa will likely keep his place in the backline after a strong full debut against Chelsea.Timber return key for ArtetaTimber’s return comes at the perfect time for Arsenal.This is their first week of the season with a midweek game, and while Ben White has excelled at the start of this season, having the opportunity to rest him if needed may be crucial.Is Calafiori the best left-back in the Premier League?Matt SlaterArteta has been somewhat unfortunate that despite having two elite options at right-back, the pair have rarely been fully fit at the same time. In an ideal situation, the Arsenal manager may have preferred to use one over the other depending on an opponent’s strengths and weaknesses but he has often had to select whoever has been available at any given time.This was White in the 2023-24 season, when Timber suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury. The past two full seasons have seen the Dutchman feature more regularly, with White undergoing knee surgery in 2024-25 and suffering setbacks after heavy usage when returning from previous injuries last season.Salmon’s involvement in the matchday squad will be beneficial for his development. He impressed in pre-season and signed a professional contract with Arsenal on his 17th birthday in August, but a trip to Napoli will be like nothing he has experienced before — even if he does not get on the pitch.
