Arsenal defender Julien Timber is a major doubt for the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain after being sidelined for the past two months with a groin injury.
Julian Timber hopes to be fit enough to play in the Champions League final
Julian Timber has claimed it would be a ‘dream’ return for him in the Champions League final.
The Gunners defender has been out since mid-March with a groin injury and faces a fight for a place in the clash against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on May 30. But Timber insists he is “doing everything” to prepare himself to be part of the Netherlands squad and prove his fitness ahead of this summer’s World Cup.
Timber missed Thursday’s public practice during media day ahead of the Champions League final, but hopes to step up his recovery efforts and be ready.
The Dutch full-back said: “I’m working really hard, trying really hard and of course it’s a dream to play in the Champions League final.”
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“So I’m going to give everything. The World Cup as well, but first of all, of course, the Champions League final. It’s just going to be great.”
“It’s been a little slower than expected, but we’ve been working hard to get back, so hopefully we’ll see.”
Although the Timbers’ season was in danger of ending on a disappointing note, the team enjoyed its first title in 22 years. He is a hugely important figure both in the dressing room and on the pitch and has revealed that he always believed before the start of the season that Arsenal, who had finished runners-up in the previous three seasons, would do it this time around.
Gunners manager Mikel Arteta had his squad sit by a “lucky” olive tree at their training ground during pre-season, convincing them they could get over the line.
Timber added, “We felt like this was going to be the season. I understand why the coach said that in that moment, a week before the season started. He had us all sit by a tree and we talked a lot with the team about what the season was going to be like.”
Julian Timber has been out since mid-March with a groin problem (Image: Getty Images)
“I don’t know if I can give too much insight, but it was a good moment. Like I said, there are a lot of moments in a season. I think it was Newcastle away when big Gabi (Gabrieu) got that header.”
“For a split second, I think it decides the season. But even in the last game against West Ham, David Raya saved that ball and Leandro Trossard scored that goal. I think the difference is very small, but that moment is very important.”
“I think the manager is a perfect example of building a club for the current situation. He makes all the players better. If you look at all the players in our team, I think he makes everyone better.”
“I think he has built one of the best teams in the world and I can say that now because we are in the Premier League and we are in the Champions League final.
“I think he’s one of the best coaches ever. For me personally, he’s been a great coach. He’s always given me a lot of confidence and helped me grow a lot. So I’m grateful and I’m excited about what’s to come.”
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