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Arteta confirms Timber and Saliba out of Kairat clash

By on January 28, 2026

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Jurrien Timber and William Saliba will miss Arsenal’s Champions League meeting with Kairat Almaty on Wednesday night.

Arsenal currently sit top of the Champions League table and have already secured qualification for the next round of the competition.

Despite already sealing progression, the north London side remain focused on ending the group phase on a strong and positive note.

Timber and Saliba ruled out

When questioned about the fitness of both defenders, Arteta made it clear that neither player would be involved in the upcoming fixture.

“No, those are not (available),” the boss said at the Sobha Realty Training Centre, “it’s a good opportunity now that we make a different kind of work with them to get them in the best possible condition for the weekend hopefully.”

Arteta’s comments suggest that the focus is on ensuring Timber and Saliba return in good shape rather than taking any risks.

Suspensions add to Arsenal absences

Alongside the defensive duo, Arsenal will also be without Mikel Merino and Declan Rice for the clash in midweek. Both midfielders are suspended after collecting three yellow cards across the first seven matches of the league phase.

The manager made it clear that dealing with such situations has been a regular part of the campaign so far.

He pointed out that Arsenal have faced similar issues across domestic matches, European games, and international commitments. The Arsenal boss also delivered positive news by confirming that some players have recently returned to action.

Arteta underlined that injuries and suspensions will never be used as an excuse for poor performances. He continued:

“It’s been like this for the first seven months of the competition,”

“There is nothing new. The good news is that we have some players back as well now that are going to be helping us,”

“We are used to it, so that’s never going to be an excuse,”

Arsenal will now aim to finish the group phase with maximum points and maintain momentum heading into the next stage.