Jurriën Timber Returns to Full Arsenal Training Ahead of Champions League Final
News Updated: 27 May 2026 22:15 EAT
Jurrien Timber completed full first-team training today
Arsenal have received a huge boost ahead of the UEFA Champions League final after Jurriën Timber returned to full first-team training following his recent injury setback. The Dutch defender has been sidelined since March with a groin problem, but he is now back with the squad as preparations intensify for the showdown against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest.
Timber’s recovery comes at a crucial stage for Mikel Arteta, who has been managing several defensive concerns in recent weeks. Arsenal were already dealing with injuries in defence, making Timber’s return especially important ahead of the biggest European match of the club’s modern era.
The 24-year-old had missed a significant stretch of Arsenal’s season after suffering the injury during the latter stages of the campaign. Earlier fears suggested he could miss the Champions League final entirely, with concerns growing over whether he would recover in time for the decisive fixture.
Despite the setback, Arsenal’s medical and fitness staff continued working closely with Timber throughout his rehabilitation programme. The defender reportedly remained determined to return before the end of the season and pushed hard to regain full fitness ahead of the final.
Training updates this week confirmed Timber has now fully rejoined team sessions and is expected to travel with the Arsenal squad. A final decision regarding whether he starts or appears from the bench will likely depend on his match sharpness and physical condition in the days leading up to the final.
Timber has been one of Arsenal’s standout performers this season due to his versatility, composure and defensive intelligence. His ability to operate across multiple positions in the back line has made him a key figure in Arteta’s tactical system during Arsenal’s impressive domestic and European campaign.
Arsenal are preparing for their first Champions League final appearance in two decades as they chase the club’s first-ever European Cup triumph. Timber’s return has now lifted confidence inside the squad as the Gunners continue final preparations for one of the biggest matches in the club’s history.
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FELIX MAKONA
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