Arteta Receives Major Boost as Timber Cleared for Champions League Final

Mikel Arteta will walk into the Puskas Arena on Saturday with one significant weight lifted from his mind. Jurrien Timber is not only in Budapest – he is fit to start.

On the eve of Arsenal’s Champions League final against holders Paris Saint‑Germain, the manager delivered the update every travelling supporter wanted to hear. Timber, who had been a doubt with a groin problem, has come through training and is available from the first whistle.

For a side chasing the greatest club prize of all just days after lifting the Premier League trophy at Selhurst Park, it is a powerful message: Arsenal are close to full strength when it matters most.

Timber ready, Raya returns, Madueke cleared

Timber’s inclusion gives Arteta fresh options in a game that could hinge on details. The Dutchman’s ability to step into midfield, defend wide and handle pressure on the ball offers tactical flexibility against a PSG team that punish hesitation.

Behind him, David Raya is expected to reclaim his place in goal. The Spaniard sat out the final league game of the season at Crystal Palace with a combination of back, glute and shoulder issues, but the club view that absence as precautionary. All signs point to him being ready for Budapest, restoring the defensive spine that carried Arsenal through the spring.

Out wide, Noni Madueke has also been cleared. The winger felt his hamstring on the final day against Palace and was withdrawn, sparking fears of a cruelly timed setback. Arteta moved to calm those concerns in his pre‑match press conference, confirming the England international is fine and in contention.

Three doubts, three green lights. For a squad that has gone deep on multiple fronts, that matters.

White ruled out as season ends early

Not everyone made it. Ben White, so often Arsenal’s iron man, will watch the final from the stands.

The defender suffered a significant knee injury in the win over West Ham United, an issue serious enough to draw a hard line under his season. His absence strips Arteta of a trusted, durable presence who has knitted together the right flank all year.

White’s injury closes one door and forces another open. With Timber ready and others fit, the reshuffle at the back will shape how Arsenal try to unpick the reigning European champions.

The Premier League trophy is already in the cabinet. Now comes the chance to turn a memorable season into a historic one, with a near‑full squad and 90 minutes in Budapest to define it.