Arteta Confirms William Saliba and Jurrien Timber Injury Update Ahead of Leeds Clash

🕓 Last updated on February 28, 2026

Arteta confirms that Jurrien Timber and William Saliba will return for a crucial Premier League test but miss the Champions League match.

William Saliba and Jurrien Timber will miss Arsenal’s next Champions League game against Kairat Almaty, according to a recent injury update from Mikel Arteta.

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Both defenders will feature in this weekend’s Premier League clash with Leeds United. Meanwhile, Arteta emphasized the precautionary rotation, determined to keep his players fresh during a decisive stage of the title race.

Arteta downplayed the injuries as minor and emphasized the precautionary nature of the decision, with the club focused on maintaining fitness during a crucial stage of the title race.

William Saliba and Jurrien Timber picked up slight niggles in Arsenal’s 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at the Emirates. Although they completed the full 90 minutes, Arteta will rest them when Arsenal travel to face Kairat.

Arteta confirmed the decision was made to avoid unnecessary risk.

“They’ve got slight niggles,” Arteta said. “It’s a good opportunity to get them in the best possible condition for the weekend.”

Arteta prioritises Premier League title push

With Arsenal already qualified for the Champions League knockout stages, Wednesday’s fixture holds little competitive importance. The Gunners stormed through all seven group matches to lock in a top-two finish.

With Declan Rice and Mikel Merino suspended for the European tie, Arteta looks set to rotate his squad heavily.

The focus now firmly shifts to domestic matters.

Arsenal travel to Elland Road on Saturday to face Leeds United in a match that could prove decisive in the Premier League title race. Arteta is confident Saliba and Timber will both be available for selection.

Their potential return will be a major boost after recent defensive scrutiny and growing pressure from Manchester City and Aston Villa.

Arsenal rotation expected in Europe

With qualification secured, several fringe and academy players are likely to feature against Kairat, allowing Arteta to keep his strongest XI fresh for the league run-in.

For Arsenal supporters, the injury update offers reassurance that two defensive pillars will be ready when it matters most.

Last updated: February 28, 2026 • Stay tuned for the latest Arsenal FC news, transfers & match insights!

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