Over the past few years, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has put together a world-class squad capable of challenging for the highest honours.
When Arteta took over at Arsenal in 2019, the Gunners were a shadow of what they are now as they fell out of top-four contention for a while.
Now, Arsenal have been – and continue to be – in the Premier League title race for three seasons in a row and are in inspired form once again.
Up next for Arsenal is Saturday evening’s league trip to West Ham, with the Gunners eager to close the gap on leaders Liverpool.
Speaking ahead of the game, Arteta sung the praises of an “exceptional” Arsenal player who “still has many layers and levels to go”.
Jurrien Timber of Arsenal during a training session at Sobha Realty Training Centre on November 29, 2024 in London Colney, England.
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
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Mikel Arteta backs Jurrien Timber for stardom at Arsenal
The player in question is Jurrien Timber, who has been a revelation for Arsenal since his return to action after an ACL injury kept him out for most of 2023/24.
Arteta predicted that the 23-year-old is still nowhere near his very best and has so many more levels he can reach as he continues to develop as a player.
When Arsenal’s media team asked Arteta about Timber’s form, he replied: “Yes, and that level as well.
“We know what he can produce, he’s a player with exceptional qualities, a lot of leadership.
“You see the courage, and the intention and purpose that he plays with. That’s very contagious.
“He’s a player that still has many layers and levels to go so I’m very happy to have him.”
Why Timber is becoming so important for Arsenal
Timber made just two appearances for Arsenal last season following his unfortunate injury in the Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest.
However, the Dutchman has largely stayed injury-free so far this season and is showing the kind of form that elevates Arsenal another level.
In addition, Timber is also growing as an attacking force with each passing game in the team, grabbing an assist against Sporting CP in midweek.
With Ben White out through surgery, it’s great to see Timber step in and show his quality and versatility to make that right-back berth his own.
Arsenal are next in action on Saturday as they take on West Ham in the Premier League and, barring any potential late issues, Timber should start at the London Stadium.
The Gunners are scheduled to kick off against the Hammers at 5:30pm GMT.
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