Key Arsenal defender set to undergo surgery

  • Jurrien Timber to undergo operation
  • Attempt to solve ankle issue
  • Absence period currently unclear
Timber will undergo ankle surgery
Timber will undergo ankle surgery | Catherine Ivill - AMA/GettyImages

Jurrien Timber is set to undergo ankle surgery after managing fitness issues in recent weeks, according to a report by the Telegraph's Sam Dean.

The Dutchman was absent from the matchday squad in Arsenal's 1-0 win over Newcastle, having not been brought off the bench in the 2-2 draw at Anfield a week prior. He managed to start both legs in the Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain, but also missed the defeat to Bournemouth sandwiched between.

With just one game remaining for the Gunners in the 2024/25 season, Timber's absence won't have too great of an impact on the team and many will be pleased to see him having such an issue dealt with.


Jurrien Timber set to undergo ankle surgery

Having spent practically all of last season out with injury, Jurrien Timber has been a key part of Mikel Arteta's side this season, but this campaign has not been without the odd hinderance.

The Dutchman has been absent from the Gunners' matchday squad for two of their last three league games, remaining on the bench for the other. He started both legs against PSG, but failed to complete 90 minutes in either.

Dean's report revealed that Timber has been managing his fitness in recent weeks, with an ankle issue being the cause for his scattered availability. Arsenal's medical staff are said to have decided a procedure is needed to address the problem.

It is unclear how long the right back will be unavailable so fans will only be hoping he will return in time for the beginning of next season.

This point of the season does seem to be the best time for Timber to undergo such a procedure however. With only one game to play and Champions League football now secure, the Gunners do not need to go strong against Southampton, meaning he may have been unused regardless. It's evident this has been a recurring issue for him, so to deal with it now seems smart.

The Netherlands international is likely to be absent for a couple of months, but if it is any longer, fears will arise he could miss his side's pre-season campaign and the opening games of the next league season. As a result, every fan will have their fingers crossed that Timber can make a speedy recovery in order to be ready to go come the start of the new season.


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