Arsenal’s £38million Summer Signing Sidelined After Premier League Debut Injury

Arsenal’s new summer signing, Jurrien Timber, is facing an extended spell on the sidelines after sustaining a potentially serious knee injury during his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The £38.5million acquisition from Ajax had impressed in pre-season, but his debut was cut short when he limped off shortly after half-time in the Gunners’ 2-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium.

Timber initially injured his knee while making a challenge just before the break but, after receiving treatment, returned for the second half. However, the Dutch defender was forced off again soon after and was replaced by Takehiro Tomiyasu.

Arsenal have confirmed that Timber has undergone assessments and scans, revealing an injury to his right knee. The club’s official statement on Monday evening stated that Timber will undergo a further, more detailed review with a consultant in the coming days to determine the full extent of the injury and decide on next steps.

“This is a significant concern for Arsenal, as Timber’s versatility across the back four was seen as a crucial asset to Mikel Arteta’s squad, with the 22-year-old capable of playing at left-back, centre-back, and right-back. Timber started at left-back in the match against Forest, filling in for Oleksandr Zinchenko, who has only just returned from injury after missing the entire pre-season campaign.

Should Timber face a long recovery, it would be a major setback for Arteta’s plans, particularly as Arsenal prepare for their next match against Crystal Palace next Monday. The club remains focused on supporting Timber during his recovery and will provide updates as more information becomes available.