BUDAPEST, Hungary — Arsenal has received a significant boost with Mikel Arteta announcing that Jurriën Timber is fit to start in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. Arteta emphasized that the Gunners are determined to “take the trophy” from the reigning champions.
The 24-year-old defender has been out of action since March 14 due to a groin injury but has now returned to full training and is set to make a dramatic comeback at Puskas Arena.
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Noni Madueke is also fit to play after experiencing cramp in Arsenal’s last Premier League match against Crystal Palace, where the Gunners celebrated winning their first title in 22 years.
Now, Arsenal has the opportunity to claim the Champions League trophy for the first time in its history. Last season, they were eliminated by PSG in the semi-finals. The only prior appearance of Arsenal in the final was 20 years ago, when Arsene Wenger’s team lost 2-1 to Barcelona in Paris.
“This is a moment for us to seize,” Arteta stated during a Friday news conference. “It’s our second opportunity here, and we can write a new chapter in the club’s history.”
“To achieve that, we must play with clarity, courage, and an unyielding desire to win. If we embody those attributes, I am confident that we’ll be very close to victory.”
When asked if winning the title had alleviated pressure, Arteta responded: “Not at all. Our ambition is greater. We’ve achieved one goal, but we want the next. That’s what we’ve been discussing. It should serve as a foundation for aiming even higher.
“The team’s capabilities are evident from the last few seasons and our performance in this competition. I want the players to carry the confidence that we can succeed.
“They crave more. Experiencing success enhances your desire because you understand how it feels, and you want to recreate that feeling as often as possible. Tomorrow presents an opportunity for that.
“PSG is the defending champion, the last team to have lifted the trophy. We are here with the intention of taking it from them.”