Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal have no new injury concerns following their Champions League win over Napoli, with Ben White available for Saturday’s Premier League trip to Sunderland despite appearing to limp late in midweek.
White was substituted during Arsenal’s 1-0 victory at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, prompting concern after he was seen in discomfort near the end of the match. However, Arteta moved quickly to dismiss fears over the England defender’s condition, stating simply: “He’s fine.” The 28-year-old is therefore expected to be in contention for selection at the Stadium of Light.
Arsenal opened their Champions League campaign with a disciplined away win in Naples, where Martin Ødegaard scored the decisive goal. The result extended a strong start to the season for Arteta’s side, who now return to domestic action looking to maintain their momentum in the Premier League.
Timber Nears Return
Arteta also offered an encouraging update on Jurrien Timber, who is closing in on a return after spending recent days training with the first-team squad. The Dutch defender travelled to Italy for the Napoli fixture but was not included in the matchday squad.
“Let’s see, we have another training session,” Arteta said. “He’s been doing really well, he’s been training with us now for a few days and he looks in good shape.” Timber could therefore be available for the Sunderland match, although Arsenal will make a final decision after assessing him in training.
Cristhian Mosquera is also progressing well as he works back from a knock. Arteta indicated that the defender could return either against Sunderland or in Arsenal’s next fixture, offering the manager the prospect of increased depth across his defensive unit.
Arsenal’s Defensive Picture
White’s availability is especially significant because Arsenal are already managing other defensive absences and recovery programmes. William Saliba remains sidelined with a back problem, while Timber and Mosquera have not yet fully returned to match fitness.
Arteta’s confirmation that his side emerged from the Napoli match without further setbacks will ease concerns ahead of a demanding run of fixtures. Arsenal travel to Sunderland on Saturday evening, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 BST, aiming to continue their winning start to the league season.
