Timber Hails Arsenal’s Depth After Champions League Win in Bilbao
Arsenal’s Champions League campaign got off to a perfect start with a hard-fought 2-0 win over Athletic Club in Bilbao, and Jurrien Timber couldn’t hide his admiration for the squad’s depth. He described the victory as a clear example of how the team’s strength isn’t just in its starting eleven, but in the entire roster. Timber highlighted how the second-half substitutes, particularly Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, turned the game around with their decisive contributions.
The Dutch defender explained that while Arsenal faced some challenges in the first half, the energy brought on by the bench players made all the difference. “We struggled a bit in the first half, but in the end we did really well,” Timber said. “The subs helped us a lot. We have a great squad with many good players. The way they came in and supported the team is amazing and gives us the energy we need in games like this.” It’s clear that Mikel Arteta’s summer signings, with seven outfield players featuring in the lineup, are already making an impact, even if goalkeeper Kepa remained on the bench.
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Timber also spoke about the special atmosphere at San Mamés, acknowledging that it’s a stadium that can be intimidating, but he insisted the team thrived under the pressure. “I love this kind of atmosphere. It’s tough to hear each other on the pitch, but these are the Champions League nights you dream of. It’s even nicer when you win.”
Arsenal was missing Bukayo Saka through injury, yet Timber praised the influence of new signing Noni Madueke, who impressed on the right flank. “He’s doing amazing,” Timber said. “I knew him already from before, so I’m not surprised. He’s such a threat, and I don’t think any opponent likes to play against him.”
Reflecting on the match, Timber admitted that the team took some time to find their rhythm but emphasized the second-half improvement. “We didn’t dominate the way we wanted in the first half, but we also didn’t give much away. After half-time, we picked it up and finished the game really well.”
Looking ahead, Timber insisted that Arsenal remains focused on one game at a time. While ambitions of a deep European run remain, he stressed the importance of keeping perspective. “Of course, the aim is to go further, but it’s still far away. We know what we’re capable of and we’re confident, but we take it game by game. Today was a good step.” That step is already followed by a massive domestic test, as Manchester City prepares to visit the Emirates on Sunday. Timber made it clear that attention has already shifted: “Those three points were important, but now it’s about City. That’s the next challenge, and we’ll be ready.”
In the end, the win in Bilbao showcased more than just a result on the scoreboard. It was a demonstration that Arsenal can adapt, rotate, and still perform at the highest level, proving that Arteta’s squad depth is a genuine weapon in Europe this season.
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