Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has delivered a strong message ahead of the teamβs UEFA Champions League clash against PSV Eindhoven, stressing the importance of using the match to change their recent form. Speaking before the first leg of the Round of 16 at Philips Stadion, Timber emphasized how crucial this game is in reshaping Arsenalβs season.
βTomorrow is a great opportunity to change the narrative and secure a win,β Timber stated, highlighting the teamβs determination to bounce back. He acknowledged the impact of injuries to key attackers like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz, which have limited Arsenalβs offensive options. However, he expressed confidence in the squadβs overall quality and depth.
βWe have so much talent in this group,β he said. βYes, injuries have affected us, particularly in attack, but itβs a challenge for us to create chances and put our front players in the best positions to score.β
Arsenalβs recent Premier League struggles have seen them drop 13 points behind leaders Liverpool, including goalless draws against West Ham and Nottingham Forest. Timber stressed the urgency of securing a strong result in the Champions League to reignite their season.
βWe need to score; we need to win,β he insisted. βIn the Champions League, you donβt get second chances. We have to go all out.β
Manager Mikel Arteta echoed Timberβs views, emphasizing the teamβs defensive stability in the group stage, where they conceded only three goals and posted the lowest Expected Goals Against. He called on the squad to build on this strength and step up their performance.
βOur approach in Europe has been more consistent,β Arteta noted. βWeβve been solid defensively, scored plenty of goals, and conceded very few. Thatβs a strong foundation, and we need to keep it going.β
As Arsenal prepares to take on PSV Eindhoven, the focus is on resilience and making a statement on the European stage. The match presents a vital opportunity for the Gunners to reaffirm their ambitions and advance further in the competition.