“He is a risk”, “We have a big game on Sunday” - Arsenal fans unhappy with 23-year-old being named in starting line-up to face Atalanta
Arsenal supporters took to social media to express concern regarding the inclusion of Jurrien Timber in the starting XI for their UEFA Champions League opener against Atalanta. Mikel Arteta has made only two changes to the XI which started the North London derby at the weekend.
Declan Rice, who was suspended for the derby, has replaced Jorginho while Gabriel Jesus has replaced Leandro Trossard.
Despite the Gunners facing their arch-rivals Manchester City on Sunday, the backline has been left completely unaltered by Arteta. Fans were particularly worried about Timber, who has been operating as a makeshift full-back at Arsenal and has featured regularly for the London powerhouse.
The 23-year-old arrived at Arsenal from Ajax last summer, primarily to provide depth at right-back and offer competition to Ben White. While Oleksandr Zinchenko was established as the first-choice left-back, it was a surprise to many when Timber lined up on the left side of defense in Arsenal's season opener against Nottingham Forest. However, misfortune struck during that 2-1 win, as Timber suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in his right knee, requiring surgery.
The setback sidelined him for the remainder of the campaign, and fans had to wait until the final day of the season to catch a glimpse of Timber in action during a 2-1 victory over Everton.
After playing just 20 minutes in the club's opening weekend victory against Wolves this season, Timber has since started every league game and completing the full 90 minutes in the recent North London derby. However, with the matches coming thick and fast, fans have questioned the decision to field him ahead of the all-important clash against City.
Kevin De Bruyne doubtful for Arsenal clash after groin injury against Inter Milan
Kevin De Bruyne is a doubt for Manchester City's upcoming Premier League fixture against Arsenal on Sunday after suffering a groin injury during their goalless Champions League draw with Inter Milan.
The 33-year-old midfielder sustained the injury following a challenge from Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer in the first half. Despite receiving treatment, De Bruyne was substituted at half time.
When asked about the Belgian’s availability for the all-important clash, City manager Pep Guardiola said (via The Guardian),
"I don’t know, I will have more info tomorrow. The doctor said he was not ready to continue [for the second half]."
City’s clash with the Gunners could be crucial, with Mikel Arteta's side sitting just two points behind the reigning Premier League champions.