Arteta Confirms Timber's Fitness for Champions League Final

Mikel Arteta will walk out in Budapest with one significant question already answered: Jurrien Timber is fit, and he is ready to start.

On the eve of Arsenal’s Champions League final against holders Paris Saint-Germain at the Puskas Arena on Saturday evening, the manager cut a decisive figure as he delivered his last injury bulletin of the season. The Premier League trophy has already been lifted at Selhurst Park. Now comes the shot at immortality.

Timber cleared for take-off

Timber’s inclusion is the headline. The defender, sidelined by a groin problem, travelled with the squad to Hungary and has come through the final checks. Arteta confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the Dutchman is available from the first whistle, not merely for a late cameo.

For a side that builds so much of its rhythm from the back, having Timber’s composure and aggression in the starting XI changes the tone of Arsenal’s approach. He offers security, but also ambition. In a final of this magnitude, that blend matters.

Raya ready after late scare

Behind him, Arsenal expect to have their first-choice goalkeeper back in place.

David Raya sat out the final Premier League game of the campaign at Crystal Palace with a combination of back, glute and shoulder issues. It looked a worry at the time, the kind of niggle that can linger into a showpiece occasion.

The concern has eased. Raya is expected to be available for the final, restoring the familiar spine that has underpinned Arsenal’s domestic title charge.

Madueke given the all-clear

Out wide, there is relief too.

Noni Madueke limped off on the final day of the league season against Palace with a hamstring problem, a sight that instantly darkened Arsenal’s celebrations. Early indications suggested the change was precautionary, and Arteta has now backed that up.

Speaking ahead of the clash with PSG, he confirmed the England international is fine. For a side that thrives on pace and direct running in wide areas, that is no small boost.

White ruled out

Not every story has a late twist.

Ben White’s season ended with a significant knee injury sustained in the win over West Ham United. There is no dramatic return, no surprise inclusion. The defender remains out and will watch this one from the sidelines, his campaign already closed.

His absence strips Arteta of a trusted, versatile option in defence, a player who has been central to Arsenal’s evolution under the Spaniard. Others will have to carry that load now, on the biggest stage of all.

The title is already in the cabinet. The parade memories are still fresh. But in Budapest, against the reigning European champions, Arteta finally has close to the squad he wanted for the night that will define how this remarkable season is remembered.