Arsenal’s preparations for the 2026 UEFA Champions League final in Budapest have received a major lift, with manager Mikel Arteta confirming that defender Jurriën Timber is fit to start against Paris Saint-Germain.
A Crucial Return
Timber had been sidelined for the past 14 matches due to a groin issue, leaving his availability for the biggest game of the season in doubt. However, the Dutch defender has successfully completed his recovery in recent weeks and traveled with the squad to Hungary.
During his pre-match press conference, Arteta was clear regarding the defender's status: when asked if Timber was fit enough to start the match, the manager responded that he was.
The Stage is Set
Arsenal and PSG are set to face off at the Puskás Aréna this Saturday, May 30, in a clash that pits the Premier League champions against the defending European title-holders. For Arsenal, this final represents a historic opportunity to secure their first-ever Champions League trophy in their second-ever appearance in the competition.
Arteta expressed the squad's collective excitement ahead of the showdown, stating, "I look around, I see the joy, the desire they all have to play this game. It is the biggest game in football and everyone wants to be part of that".
With Timber back in contention, Arteta now faces a final tactical selection headache as he looks to guide the Gunners to a historic double.