It may come as a surprise to learn that Arsenal’s most creative player in their emphatic 5-1 victory over Sporting wasn’t Bukayo Saka or Martin Ødegaard. Instead, it was Jurrien Timber, whose exceptional performance highlighted his growing importance in Mikel Arteta’s side.
The Dutch right-back was instrumental in Lisbon, creating three chances—more than any other Arsenal player—and delivering a sublime assist for Gabriel Martinelli’s opening goal. His pinpoint cross sliced through Sporting’s defense and goalkeeper Franco Israel with surgical precision, setting the tone for a dominant display. Beyond the assist, Timber led Arsenal in passes completed and touches, showcasing his control and influence on the game. On a night where Arsenal made a statement in Europe, Timber made his own statement about his place in the team.
In past seasons, the thought of Ben White sidelined for months would have been a significant concern for Arteta. White’s versatility and consistency have been pivotal, with the England defender often playing through the pain barrier to anchor Arsenal’s backline. However, Timber has emerged as genuine competition, proving that he is more than capable of stepping into White’s shoes. Signed as cover and competition, Timber’s adaptability across defensive roles—right-back, left-back, and even center-back—has already paid dividends.
Now deployed in his natural position at right-back, Timber has begun forming a promising partnership with Saka. Their budding understanding is crucial for Arsenal, as Saka’s brilliance on the right flank has often been enhanced by White’s overlapping runs. White’s recent knee surgery had visibly limited his ability to provide that support, a key tactic that disrupts opponents’ defensive setups. Timber’s willingness to drive forward and offer similar support is already proving invaluable, giving Saka more freedom to excel.
Arsenal scouts identified Timber as a defender who combines athleticism with exceptional technical ability. His capacity to progress the ball, whether under pressure or against deep-lying defenses, was on full display against Sporting. Timber completed more progressive passes than any other Arsenal player, driving the team forward with purpose. His advanced positioning, even compared to fellow full-back Riccardo Calafiori and holding midfielder Thomas Partey, highlights the attacking dimension he brings to the role.
The synergy developing between Timber, Saka, and Ødegaard is another encouraging sign. The trio exchanged 61 of Arsenal’s 458 passes in Lisbon, demonstrating a growing understanding of each other’s movements. For Saka, the addition of Timber’s dynamism complements Ødegaard’s creativity, potentially elevating Arsenal’s already formidable right side to new heights.
As the busy festive period looms, Arsenal appear to be settling into a consistent backline despite earlier disruptions caused by injuries. Timber, in particular, has seized his opportunity to shine. His assured performances ensure that White’s absence won’t feel as significant as initially feared, and his presence offers Arsenal a new dimension in both defense and attack. The Dutchman is proving why Arteta and Arsenal’s scouts were so keen to bring him to North London—and why he could become indispensable in the months to come.