Jurrien Timber believes Arsenal have an opportunity to turn their season around by securing a win against PSV Eindhoven in their Champions League last-16 tie.
The team has faced setbacks due to injuries, with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus ruled out for the remainder of the campaign. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are also sidelined with hamstring issues, leaving Arsenal without key attacking options. Their recent struggles in front of goal have seen them go two consecutive matches without scoring, falling 13 points behind league leaders Liverpool.
Despite this, Arsenal impressed in the Champions League group stage, finishing third on 19 points while conceding just three goals. Ahead of their first-leg match at PSV’s Philips Stadium, Timber expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to rise to the occasion.
“The motivation is there, and it’s a fantastic competition to be part of,” the Dutch defender said. “We showed in the group stage that we performed well and have a strong team. Tomorrow is a great chance to change the momentum and get a win.”
Timber has featured in 36 games for Arsenal this season after missing most of the previous campaign due to an ACL injury sustained on the opening day. He believes that finding success again is not about overcomplicating things.
“We have so much quality in our squad. Of course, we’re dealing with a lot of injuries, especially in attack, but this is a great opportunity for others to step up and make an impact,” he said. “We need to score, we need to win. In the Champions League, you only have two legs, so there’s no room for mistakes—we have to go for it.”
Arsenal’s recent form has led to some criticism, particularly with their attacking struggles, but Timber remains positive about the challenge ahead.
“I don’t see it as a negative. We’ve been through a lot, especially in recent weeks,” he said. “But this is another challenge for us, and we have to embrace it. Tomorrow’s game is the perfect chance to prove ourselves, and I’m confident we will.”
