Top-flight footballer Jurriën Timber has joined the chorus of criticism aimed at the congested fixture schedule, echoing sentiments expressed by his injured counterpart Rodri. The Spanish midfielder, who suffered a season-ending knee injury, warned of potential industrial action as players face an increasingly demanding calendar.
Timber, who himself missed most of last season due to a cruciate knee ligament injury, has featured in all six of his team’s Premier League games this season. He is expected to start against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Tuesday.
“I completely agree with Rodri,” Timber said in a press conference. “It’s a topic that’s frequently discussed in the dressing room. As someone who’s just returned to playing, I’m enjoying being back on the pitch, but I understand the concerns being raised.”
Timber believes the packed schedule puts players at greater risk of injury. “It’s a dangerous situation,” he said. “Last week, we played against Manchester City, and they had to play again just two days later. That’s too much.”
The Dutch defender commended his fellow professionals for speaking out against the issue. “It’s great that players are now voicing their concerns. The schedule isn’t going to get any lighter, and we’re trying to perform at our best in every game, but it’s getting increasingly difficult – especially in England, where there’s no winter break.”
Arsenal will face a PSG side likely to be without forward Ousmane Dembélé, who did not travel to London due to a disagreement with manager Luis Enrique. The French club is also dealing with several other injury concerns, including Nuno Mendes, Lucas Hernández, Presnel Kimpembe, and Gonçalo Ramos.
Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta acknowledged that PSG will still pose a significant threat despite their injury woes. “They’re a very tough team to play against,” Arteta said. “They dominate every phase of the game and have clear intentions. When they don’t have the ball, they want it back immediately and confront you.”
Arteta also expressed concerns over the fitness of full-back Ben White, who missed the 4-2 win over Leicester City at the weekend, and Riccardo Calafiori, who is also a doubt for the PSG match.
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