Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Jurrien Timber and Noni Madueke are both fit and available to start Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Arteta disclosed this while addressing journalists on Friday evening ahead of the highly anticipated showdown in Budapest.
Naija News understands that the update comes as a huge boost for Arsenal as the club prepares for one of the most important matches in its recent history.
Speaking on the fitness of the duo, Arteta revealed that both players are ready for selection and could feature from the start against the French champions.
“Timber is fit. Fit enough to start? Yeah. Madueke? Yeah, he is fit. The only one is Ben [White],” Arteta stated.
Timber has been sidelined since March after picking up an injury during Arsenal’s victory over Everton.
His return provides Arteta with an additional defensive option ahead of the clash against a PSG side widely known for its speed, movement, and attacking threat.
Madueke had also raised concerns after suffering an injury scare during Arsenal’s final Premier League game of the season at Selhurst Park.
The winger scored in that encounter before the Gunners secured the Premier League title on the final day, but doubts remained over his fitness ahead of the Champions League final.
However, Arteta’s latest update has now confirmed that the attacker will be available for the encounter, offering Arsenal more strength in attack.
Meanwhile, defender Ben White has been ruled out of the final.
White sustained a knee injury during Arsenal’s clash against West Ham earlier this month and has failed to recover in time for the showdown with PSG.
His absence is expected to force Arteta into making slight adjustments in defence, although Timber’s return is likely to ease the situation.
Arsenal will now hope to crown an impressive season with European glory when they take on PSG in Budapest.