Defensive duo to miss Arsenal’s final game at Southampton

William Saliba and Jurrien Timber will miss Arsenal’s final game of the season at Southampton on Sunday.

France defender Saliba pulled a hamstring in the win over Newcastle at the weekend and had to come off at half-time. He was also left out of Les Bleus’ squad for the Nations League finals announced earlier today.

Timber has undergone ankle surgery and will use the summer to recuperate.

Injury update on William Saliba and Jurrien Timber 👇

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 21, 2025

It has been a fine bounce back season for the Dutchman, who has made 48 appearances after missing the bulk of his first year at the Emirates due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta told beIN Sports: “You understand that he was coming back from an ACL one year out, and to have this season after an ACL, it’s incredible.

“We didn’t sign a player, we signed a leader, a very, very special character.”

Saliba breaks Arsenal record

Saliba has been a key part of the Arsenal defence that was the backbone of their runners-up spot in the Premier League and the run to the semi-finals of the Champions League.

He has been nominated for the Premier League Young Player of the Season award after making 51 appearances. He has also won more games for Arsenal over his first 100 appearances for the club than anyone else with 68.

Arteta added: “We’ve seen his progression, his development, and the standard that he’s hitting at the moment. 

“When you talk about those numbers, it’s incredible. He’s so much to learn and improve, so we have a player there for many, many years.”