Arteta provides injury update on Saka and Timber ahead of Community Shield

Ahead of Sunday's Community Shield curtain-raiser against Manchester City, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a crucial update on his squad's fitness. Fans have received a significant boost with the confirmation that star duo Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice are back in contention, having completed recent training sessions.

Arteta expressed confidence in the condition of his returning players, including new signing Martin Zubimendi, noting that the squad's professional attitude during the summer break has left them in excellent physical shape. He indicated that if they meet expectations in final training, they will be involved in the matchday squad.

However, the defensive outlook remains challenging. Both Jurrien Timber and William Saliba will miss the clash with Enzo Maresca's side. While Saliba is facing a more significant long-term recovery, Arteta offered a more optimistic update on Timber.

Jurrien is progressing really well. He is on the pitch, we are ramping up now with certain actions and especially the volume and the load. I think he is on a good trajectory, but there is still a few weeks to go. Mikel Arteta

The club is taking a cautious approach with Timber, with the defender expected to integrate into full group training within the next seven to ten days. Beyond the immediate injury concerns, Arteta also addressed the club's transfer ambitions, confirming that Arsenal remains active in the market to evolve the squad before the deadline.