Twists of Fate: Jurrien Timber's Devastating ACL Injury on Premier League Debut Perils Arsenal Defense

Arsenal's Jurrien Timber, a £38m summer acquisition for Mikel Arteta's team, is set for an extended period out of action due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained during his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest. Timber, a Dutch defender, suffered the blow in the 50th minute of Saturday's 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest and was subsequently substituted by Takehiro Tomiyasu.

The 22-year-old requires surgery for his injury, and although Arsenal has not specified a timeframe for his absence, the club has stated that he will be out of action for some time.

In response to the news, Timber expressed his disappointment on Instagram, saying, "I am devastated to announce that my injury is more severe than anticipated, particularly after the warm welcome I have received."

Crystal Palace

Arsenal

Monday 21st August 6:30pm

Kick off 8:00pm

"I had hoped to repay you on the field, but unfortunately that won't be possible for a while. I am grateful to have wonderful people by my side, and together we will do whatever it takes to come back as soon and as strong as possible. In the meantime, I will be cheering for our team from the stands, as always. Thank you for making me feel so welcome in such a short time. I'll see you on the field at The Carpet."

Timber, who recently joined the Gunners from Ajax, has already made two senior appearances with the team. His first was during the Community Shield victory against Manchester City earlier this month, followed by his performance against Forest.

Image:

Timber now needs surgery after picking up an ACL injury

Arsenal has had a mixed 24 hours, as they announced Timber's ACL injury shortly after Oleksandr Zinchenko's return to training. Zinchenko, who played a crucial part for the Gunners in the previous season, was unable to participate in preseason matches due to a lingering groin injury that troubled him throughout the last campaign.

Zinchenko is undoubtedly the preferred choice as a reliable defender on the left side, although he has not featured in any senior matches for Arsenal since May 7. It seems highly unlikely that Mikel Arteta will immediately include the 26-year-old in the starting lineup for Monday night's game against Crystal Palace, which will be broadcasted live. Arteta has been cautious about rushing Zinchenko back into action, and the untimely injury of Timber, who had been filling in admirably at left-back, is a significant setback.

Tomiyasu has previously played in that position, particularly in the successful matches against Liverpool and Leeds last season. However, it is not the position where the Japan international feels most comfortable.

Could Timber's announcement potentially affect Arsenal's left-back departures? There have been strong rumors linking Kieran Tierney and Nuno Tavares with moves away from the Emirates Stadium. Is it now possible that one of them might stay, allowing Zinchenko and Timber to regain their form?

Who will cover Timber's injury for Arsenal?

Image:

Nuno Tavares is wanted by Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest is currently in negotiations with Arsenal for the loan signing of left-back Nuno Tavares.

The discussions involve a potential season-long loan deal with an option to purchase, and the exact permanent price is currently under discussion between the two clubs.

Having spent the previous season on loan at Marseille, the talented Portuguese left-back is currently valued at €15m. It is worth mentioning that Tavares did not participate in Arsenal's pre-season matches leading up to the commencement of the Premier League season. Notably, several other clubs in England, Italy, and Germany have also expressed interest in acquiring the services of this left-back, with Wolfsburg and Werder Bremen being among them.

Arsenal are also understood to be open to a permanent sale of Tavares as well.