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Posted on February 10, 2026 11:45 pm | Updated on February 10, 2026 10:00 pm
Dutch legend Ruud Gullit has given high praise to an Arsenal player, calling him one of the best in the English top flight. The Ballon d’Or winner spoke about Jurrien Timber, the Dutch defender who has shone for the Gunners this season. Gullit’s words come as Arsenal lead the Premier League by six points after 25 games.
Gullit’s Glowing Praise
In an interview with Gambling Insider, Gullit picked Timber as a standout. “One player I really like at Arsenal is Jurrien Timber,” he said. “He is very strong and looks convincing in everything he does. He is a fantastic player and one of the finest in the division, which you have to be to be a regular starter in Arsenal’s defence at the moment.”
Gullit knows Jurrien Timber from his Ajax days. “I saw him in the youth teams at Ajax and he was always a good, strong player. I like the way he plays,” he added. “He doesn’t moan, he gets on with his job and is a real team player. As well as that, he is so clever tactically and talented technically.” These comments show Gullit’s respect for Timber’s skills and attitude.
Timber’s Tough Start at Arsenal
Arsenal signed Timber from Ajax in summer 2023 for about £40 million. He was meant to strengthen the backline, but disaster struck early. On his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest, he suffered a bad knee injury – a torn ACL. This kept him out for almost a year.
Gullit noted this setback: “He had a real setback with that long-term injury when he first joined Arsenal, but he has bounced back from that and adapted to the Premier League so well.” Timber returned late last season and has been key this year. His recovery shows grit, fitting Gullit’s view of him as a team player.
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Ruud Gullit hails Jurrien Timber as one of the finest players in the Premier League.
Ruud Gullit 🗣️:
"One player I really like at Arsenal is Jurrien Timber.
"He is very strong and looks convincing in everything he does.
"He is a fantastic player and one of the finest in the… pic.twitter.com/Q5XcXkxDqU
— AFC Dre (@oidre_) February 9, 2026
Strong Season for the Dutch Defender
This 2025-2026 season, Jurrien Timber has played in all but one league game for Arsenal. He’s a regular starter, helping the team keep a tight defense. Arsenal have conceded just 17 goals in 25 matches, with a +32 goal difference. Timber can play as a center-back or full-back, giving Arteta options.
His stats are impressive: high pass accuracy, strong tackling, and good ball-carrying. In the recent 3-0 win over Sunderland, Timber was solid at the back, allowing attackers to shine. Fans and pundits agree he’s repaid his transfer fee. At 24, Timber is part of Arsenal’s young core, alongside stars like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard.
Gullit on Another Arsenal Signing
Gullit also talked about Noni Madueke, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea for over £50 million last summer. “Noni Madueke is a good player, but he is having to play second fiddle to Bukayo Saka when both players are fit,” Gullit said. “When he is on the pitch, however, he is very handy and always a big threat, and I actually think one thing that stands out about him is how hard he works.”
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He added: “As much as I think he is dangerous on the ball, I think it goes unnoticed how good he is off it, helping the team. He is doing well at Arsenal and has been a really good signing for them.” Madueke’s work rate fits Arsenal’s style, even if he’s often a sub.
Boost for Arsenal’s Title Push
Gullit’s praise highlights Arsenal’s squad depth. With Timber anchoring the defense and players like Madueke adding flair, the Gunners look strong. They lead Manchester City by six points, with big games ahead, including a clash at the Etihad.
Timber’s story is inspiring – from injury heartbreak to top praise. As Gullit says, he’s one of the finest. Arsenal’s success might depend on stars like him staying fit and focused.
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