Arsenal have received a major injury boost ahead of their Premier League opener against Manchester United, with manager Mikel Arteta confirming that key defenders Gabriel Magalhães, Riccardo Calafiori, and Jurrien Timber are expected to be fit in time for the clash at Old Trafford on August 17.
The trio were all unavailable for Arsenal’s recent 1–0 pre-season loss to Tottenham Hotspur, raising concerns about the Gunners’ defensive readiness going into the new campaign. Gabriel and Timber, in particular, have not featured in any of the club’s three Asia tour fixtures due to injuries sustained late last season.
Speaking after the North London derby friendly, Arteta addressed their status, saying:
“I don’t think so. If they evolve like they’ve been involved in the last few days, so Gabriel Magalhães, Calafiori and Timber — the three of them will be available.”
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The update will come as a relief to Arsenal fans, especially with the high-stakes opener against arch-rivals Manchester United fast approaching. Timber, who has battled a long-term knee injury, and new signing Calafiori, who limped off during the Newcastle match, have been in light training and are said to be progressing well.
Additionally, Bukayo Saka and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also reportedly fit after recovering from minor knocks, giving Arteta more depth and stability across the back line and midfield.
With less than three weeks to the start of the season, Arteta appears cautiously optimistic about his squad’s health, and the return of key players could be vital in setting the tone for Arsenal’s title ambitions in the 2025/26 campaign.