After a standout performance for the Netherlands on October 10, 2025, head coach Ronald Koeman has stirred discussion across Europe by suggesting that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is deploying Jurrien Timber in the wrong position. The Dutch boss, impressed by Timber’s display on the wing, claimed the defender’s potential is being limited by his current tactical role at the Emirates.
Since joining Arsenal from Ajax in 2023, Timber has primarily featured as a right-back or centre-back under Arteta. Yet, when given a more advanced role on the right flank for his country, he flourished — showing off his pace, passing accuracy, and attacking instinct. His dynamic display led many to question whether Arteta should consider a more offensive role for the 24-year-old.
“I think Mikel [Arteta] is using him incorrectly after what I saw yesterday,” Koeman said after the match. “Jurrien has the speed, vision, and technical ability to dominate further up the pitch. He was aggressive, composed, and creative for us. That’s where he belongs — influencing the attack, not sitting too deep.”
The comments have sparked debate among Arsenal fans and pundits, many of whom value Timber’s calmness and tactical awareness in defence but were surprised by his impact as an attacking player. His performance — combining defensive control with creative flair — drew comparisons to the modern hybrid full-back roles seen in elite teams.
The timing of this revelation is significant for Arsenal, who are currently managing several defensive injuries, including Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko. Timber’s adaptability could provide Arteta with fresh tactical options, possibly as a wing-back or even a wide midfielder, adding more width and energy to Arsenal’s game.
Dutch reports noted that Timber covered more distance than any other player in the match, providing relentless overlapping runs and sharp deliveries from the right side. Local media described him as “a player reborn when given attacking freedom.”
At Arsenal, however, Timber’s role has been more restrained. Arteta’s structured system places heavy emphasis on control and defensive stability, often limiting his full-backs’ attacking ventures. While this has offered balance, critics now suggest it might be suppressing Timber’s full potential.
Social media reactions reflected fans’ excitement. One post read: “Arteta has a gem and doesn’t even realize it — Timber was world-class for the Netherlands.” Another added: “Imagine Saka and Timber linking up on the right. That could be unstoppable.”
Although Arteta has yet to comment publicly, his tactical flexibility could be tested in the coming weeks. With Timber regaining form after a long-term injury, there’s growing pressure for the Arsenal boss to experiment and give the Dutchman more freedom to attack.
In the Netherlands camp, the consensus is clear — Timber is more than just a defender. His intelligence, technical control, and acceleration make him one of Europe’s most complete right-sided players. Whether used as a defender, wing-back, or advanced winger, his versatility could become a major weapon for Arsenal as they approach a demanding run of fixtures.
What’s certain is that Timber’s stunning international display has reignited excitement about his future. If Arteta takes Koeman’s advice, Arsenal fans could soon see a more adventurous and explosive version of Jurrien Timber lighting up the right flank at the Emirates.
