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Arsenal Aims to Shift Season Momentum Against PSV Eindhoven

Jurrien Timber believes that Arsenal has the opportunity to redefine their season narrative with a victory over PSV Eindhoven in their upcoming Champions League last 16 encounter. As the team prepares for the crucial match at Eindhoven’s Philips Stadium, they are grappling with significant injury setbacks. Key attackers such as Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have been ruled out for the remainder of the season, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are sidelined due to hamstring injuries.

The Gunners have hit a rough patch recently, failing to find the net in their last two games and facing a daunting 13-point deficit behind league leaders Liverpool in the Premier League standings. Nevertheless, their Champions League performance has been notable; having finished the group phase with 19 points, Arsenal qualified with a robust defensive record, conceding just three goals throughout the tournament.

Timber expressed optimism ahead of the first leg, stating, “I think the motivation is there and it’s an amazing league to play in. Our performance in the group stages demonstrated that we have a strong team.” He is keen to turn the page, adding, “Tomorrow is a beautiful game to change the narrative and to win.”

Having made 36 appearances for Arsenal this season, Timber is eager to contribute after a challenging previous campaign where he participated in just two Premier League matches due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury. He feels confident that the team can regain their mojo: “We have so much quality in our group. While injuries have taken a toll, especially in the attacking department, it presents us with a challenge that I believe we can rise to.” Timber emphasized the importance of scoring in this matchup, reminding that in the Champions League, every game is pivotal: “We have to score tomorrow; we must win. In this competition, there are no second chances.”

The absence of Arsenal’s top forwards has led to increased scrutiny of the team’s recent displays. However, Timber remains positive about facing PSV, viewing the challenges as an opportunity for growth. “We’ve encountered a lot, especially in the past few weeks, but I see this as a challenge we must embrace,” he reflected. “Tomorrow provides a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate our capabilities, and I am confident we will do just that.”

Source
www.bbc.com