Arteta issues fitness update on Saliba and Timber

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**Press Conference**

Arteta Provides Fitness Update on Saliba and Timber

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Connor Booth

27 Jan 2026

Jurrien Timber celebrates scoring against Bayern Munich alongside William Saliba

 

Mikel Arteta has given a fitness update for the first-team squad ahead of the Champions League match against Kairat Almaty.

 

When asked about the availability of defenders William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, who missed training on Tuesday morning, Arteta responded, “No, they will not be available. This presents a good opportunity for us to work differently with them to ensure they are in optimal condition for the weekend.”

 

In addition to Saliba and Timber, the team will also be missing Mikel Merino and Declan Rice due to suspensions after each received three yellow cards in the first seven league phase matches.

 

With four key players sidelined, Arteta is set to utilize his squad, which he feels well-equipped to do. “This has been the case for the first seven months of the competition, whether it’s in this tournament, the domestic league, or with international players representing their countries. This is not something new for us. The positive side is that we also have some players returning who will assist us. We are accustomed to this situation, so it won’t serve as an excuse.”

 

This season marks the largest squad Arteta has had since taking charge in 2019, and he is relishing the challenge of managing such a talented group. “It’s really enjoyable, and the players themselves make it enjoyable with their character, their dedication to their profession, and their desire to win with us. Ultimately, it’s not just about the quantity but the quality of the players and staff we have.”