Overview
- Mikel Arteta confirmed on Sunday that Timber has returned to grass work but remains "weeks away" from match fitness, and the club says he does not need surgery.
- Timber missed most of the final two months of last season and withdrew from the Netherlands' World Cup squad during preparations with a groin problem, which has slowed his recovery.
- William Saliba is also in a prolonged rest period after suffering a back issue at the World Cup, leaving Arsenal short of two first‑choice defenders.
- The timing increases the chance Timber will miss the Community Shield and the early Premier League fixtures and places extra reliance on available players such as Ben White and internal cover.
- Arsenal's pre‑season has been disrupted by staggered World Cup breaks and managed returns, which reduces time to rebuild a fully fit backline and will shape Arteta's selection and training plans ahead of the season.