Arsenal Defender Jurrien Timber Set for Ankle Surgery, Season Ended

Arsenal right-back Jurrien Timber is set to undergo ankle surgery after managing pain and fitness issues over recent weeks, causing him to miss the final Premier League game against Southampton and raising uncertainty about his return date. Timber, who has been a key player for Arsenal this season with 48 appearances across competitions, has been playing through the pain barrier during their Champions League run, which ended in the semi-finals against Paris Saint-Germain. The club's medical staff decided on surgery following Timber's limited playing time and recent absences from matchday squads. This injury adds to Arsenal's defensive challenges, with other defenders like William Saliba, Gabriel, and Takehiro Tomiyasu also sidelined, while Mikel Arteta faces a short squad and potential summer reinforcements. Despite the setback, there is optimism that Timber will be ready for the pre-season as Arsenal prepares for the next campaign, aiming to build on their second-place finish and Champions League qualification. The club and fans hope for Timber's full recovery ahead of the new season, though the length of his absence remains unclear.