Timber and Gabriel Boost Arsenal with Return to First-Team Training

Jurrien Timber and Gabriel Magalhães have returned to first-team training with Arsenal as they continue their respective recoveries from injury.

The duo were seen participating in full training sessions on August 5, 2025, ahead of the club’s upcoming friendly against Villarreal. Gabriel is returning from a hamstring injury suffered in April, while Timber has been out since undergoing ankle surgery in May. Both players had missed Arsenal’s pre-season tour.

Manager Mikel Arteta expressed optimism about their recovery, confirming that Timber, Gabriel, and Riccardo Calafiori are on track to be fit for Arsenal’s Premier League opener against Manchester United on August 17.

Gabriel had resumed individual training weeks ago but suffered a minor setback before returning fully to the squad. Timber’s return marks his first involvement with the group since the end of last season, boosting Arsenal’s defensive options.

Their recovery offers a significant boost to Arteta, who dealt with multiple injuries to key defenders last season, including William Saliba, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Ben White. Timber’s versatility and Gabriel’s commanding presence could be vital to the club’s ambitions this season.

Other players recovering include Calafiori, who also missed recent sessions, and Leandro Trossard, who picked up a muscle issue in the friendly against Tottenham. If all goes well, Arteta expects to have a near full-strength backline available for the season opener.