As Arsenal prepare for one of the biggest games of the 2025/26 Premier League season, fresh concerns have emerged over key defensive players Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori. Both defenders were notably absent from the squad’s pre-match walk this morning ahead of the high-stakes trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City.
The Gunners currently sit top of the Premier League table with 70 points from 32 games, holding a six-point lead over second-placed Manchester City (who have a game in hand). This Sunday’s encounter (kick-off 4:30pm UK time) is being billed as a potential title decider, with Pep Guardiola’s side chasing down Mikel Arteta’s men in a fiercely competitive race.
🚨 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori were both not seen with the Arsenal squad on their pre-match walk this morning. pic.twitter.com/qCq8mQ8gww
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) April 19, 2026
Why the Absence of Timber and Calafiori Raises Alarm
Pre-match walks have become a reliable indicator for Arsenal fans and pundits tracking squad availability. The fact that Jurrien Timber (recovering from a groin issue) and Riccardo Calafiori (recent knock) were not spotted with the group adds to the growing injury list for Arteta.
- Jurrien Timber: The versatile Dutch international has been sidelined with a groin problem and has been cautious in recent comments, saying he is “recovering” but “can’t say” if he’ll feature. His absence would be a blow to Arsenal’s defensive depth, especially on the right side.
- Riccardo Calafiori: The Italian left-back/centre-back has shown positive signs in recovery and sources suggest he could be in contention for a return — possibly even from the bench. However, his omission from the walk keeps his participation uncertain.
Other notable absentees from recent sessions or walks include Bukayo Saka (confirmed out with an Achilles issue), Martin Ødegaard, and potentially others like Mikel Merino. Mikel Arteta has remained measured in press conferences, stating the club will “try again” with several players who are “quite close” but noting the short turnaround makes it challenging.
Arsenal’s defensive options could look thin if both Timber and Calafiori miss out, forcing Arteta to reshuffle — possibly relying on William Saliba, Gabriel, and others in a high-pressure environment.
Man City vs Arsenal: Title Race Implications
Manchester City enter the match in strong form, boosted by recent wins and momentum from the Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal. A win for City would reduce the gap to just three points (with their game in hand), keeping the title race alive heading into the final stretch of the season.
For Arsenal, maintaining their lead is vital as they aim for a first Premier League title since 2004. The Gunners have been unbeaten in their last five league meetings against City but will need to navigate this fixture without full squad strength.