Arsenal have received a significant update on Jurrien Timber's fitness after the Netherlands included the defender in their 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup. The versatile 24-year-old has been sidelined for the past eight weeks due to injury, but his selection for the tournament, which begins in just a matter of weeks, could enhance Arsenal's chances of having him available for the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain this Saturday.
Timber's Injury and Recovery
There had been some optimism that Timber might feature against Crystal Palace last Sunday, but he was ultimately omitted from the matchday squad. However, Mikel Merino did make his return from injury in that 2-1 victory at Selhurst Park, having been absent for several months following foot surgery. Meanwhile, Noni Madueke raised injury concerns during the same match after requiring treatment for a potential hamstring problem and being substituted. It has since been reported that he escaped serious injury and is expected to be available for Mikel Arteta in Budapest this weekend.
World Cup Boost for Timber
Timber's inclusion in the Netherlands' World Cup squad suggests that his recovery is progressing well, even if a starting role in the Champions League final appears highly improbable. He has not featured since mid-March and would face the formidable challenge of marking PSG's electric winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Nevertheless, his presence in the squad provides a morale boost for Arsenal as they prepare for the biggest match of the season.
PSG's Injury Concerns
PSG also have their own injury worries ahead of the final. Ousmane Dembele was substituted off with a calf injury against Paris FC earlier this month and has not played since, missing an internal friendly organised by the Champions League holders. However, Dembele has provided an encouraging update, stating, "I'm feeling much better than on Sunday. I had a minor scare, but the doctor told me there's nothing to worry about." He added, "It's my calf; I had a slight twinge and I preferred not to take the risk." Dembele has since returned to training alongside Achraf Hakimi, who has also recovered from a thigh complaint that kept him out for the past month. Hakimi has been named in Morocco's World Cup squad, set to travel to the United States.
Key Battle in Budapest
The clash between PSG's formidable attack and Arsenal's world-class defence is expected to be the defining battle of the final. Dembele's availability is crucial to that equation, and his return to fitness will be a major boost for the French side. With both teams dealing with injury setbacks, the fitness of key players could ultimately decide the outcome of the Champions League final.
