Mikel Arteta’s £38m Arsenal Signing Impresses – Chelsea Star Still Takes the Crown

Arteta’s £38m signing Jurrien Timber has impressed for Arsenal, but Chelsea captain Reece James is still rated higher by Jody Morris.

Mikel Arteta’s £38m investment in Jurrien Timber has paid off handsomely, with the Dutch defender emerging as one of Arsenal’s most reliable performers this season. However, despite Timber’s rise, former Chelsea coach Jody Morris believes one Blues star still holds the edge. That player is Reece James, who Morris claims remains the Premier League’s standout right-back when fully fit.

Signed from Ajax for £38.5 million in 2023, Timber endured a frustrating debut campaign after suffering a serious ACL injury early in the season. Since returning to full fitness, his influence has grown rapidly.

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Last season, Timber made 48 appearances, helping Arsenal push deep into the Champions League and sustain a title challenge. This term, he has already featured 32 times, playing a central role in a side sitting four points clear at the top of the Premier League and topping their Champions League group.

Why Timber Fits Arteta’s Tactical System Perfectly

Timber’s greatest strength lies in his tactical flexibility. Comfortable at right-back, centre-back or stepping into midfield, he has thrived in Arteta’s fluid system.

His composure on the ball, high pass-completion rate and defensive awareness have added balance to Arsenal’s build-up play. That consistency earned him a place at right-back in Jody Morris’ Premier League Team of the Season, a nod to Timber’s reliability across competitions.

Despite his admiration for Timber, Morris reserved his highest praise for Chelsea captain Reece James.

The England international has made over 200 appearances for Chelsea and, when fit, is widely regarded as one of the most complete full-backs in world football. Morris, who worked closely with James during his time at Stamford Bridge, believes his ceiling remains higher than any rival in the league.

“He could play anywhere on the pitch and still dominate,” Morris told Aceodds, highlighting James’ technical quality and football intelligence.

Consistency vs Ceiling: Timber and James Compared

Timber’s advantage this season has been availability and consistency, while James’ recurring injuries have limited his minutes. However, when James plays, his impact is often decisive.

Statistically, James tends to excel in:

• Progressive passes
• Aerial duels
• Tackles won
• Final-third delivery

Morris admitted his selection of Jurrien Timber was influenced by positional stability but made it clear that a fully fit Reece James would be unmatched at right-back.

For Arsenal, Timber’s development confirms Arteta’s £38m signing was a shrewd move, delivering elite performance levels during a title push. Chelsea, meanwhile, will hope James can maintain fitness as they chase European qualification.

As both clubs progress through the season, the debate highlights the Premier League’s defensive depth — and England’s growing strength at full-back.

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