Arsenal star Jurrien Timber has raised doubt over whether he will return from injury for the start of Arsenal's new Premier League season. The 24-year-old was one of Arsenal's standout players last season as Mikel Arteta's side went on to win the Premier League title and reach the Champions League final where they were beaten by Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the end of Timber's season was disrupted due to a groin injury and the Netherlands international missed 14 games before he returned as a second half substitute against PSG on May 30. Timber was initially named in the Netherlands' World Cup squad but was forced to withdraw last week due to his groin issue.
Timber's recovery update
Speaking in an interview with De Telegraaf, Timber, who is on holiday in the United States, admits his recovery 'will still take a while' and says he does not expect to return 'very soon'.
'It's quite nice here. In about five days, I'm going back to London, where I'll undergo several tests and see the doctors,' Timber said. 'I'm just resting for a bit now, before I start rehabilitating. The recovery will still take a while. We are going to do scans and draw up a plan together. But I don't expect to be back very soon.'
'In my head, I am immediately thinking about what is to come. That is why I am taking a break now. But at the same time, I am already eager to show how good I am and to take the next step. I just want to get healthy again as soon as possible, feel good, and start playing football again.'
Impact on Arsenal's season
Timber's absence could be a significant blow for Arsenal as they prepare to defend their Premier League title and compete in the Champions League. The defender's versatility and quality were key to Arteta's system last season, and his potential absence for the start of the new campaign may force the club to consider reinforcements in the transfer market.
