Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that two of his key defenders, Jurrien Timber and William Saliba, will miss the final game of the 2024/25 season against Southampton due to injuries.

Timber has undergone ankle surgery and will be out for a few weeks, while Saliba suffered a hamstring issue in the win against Newcastle United and is expected to be sidelined for a similar period.

Despite their injuries, Arteta praised both players for their impressive displays and growth throughout the season.

Saliba, who made his 100th Premier League appearance against Newcastle, has been a standout performer for Arsenal, and Arteta believes he has a bright future ahead of him.

“We’ve seen his progression, his development, and the standard that he’s hitting at the moment,” Arteta said.

“When you talk about those numbers, it’s incredible. He’s so much to learn and improve, so we have a player there for many, many years.”

Timber, who has played 48 times for Arsenal this season, has also impressed Arteta with his leadership qualities and determination.

After bouncing back from a long-term knee injury last season, Timber has been a huge part of Arsenal’s success this term.

“With Jurrien, you understand that he was coming back from an ACL one year out, and to have this season after an ACL, it’s incredible,” Arteta added. “We didn’t sign a player, we signed a leader, a very, very special character.”

Arsenal will be looking to close out the season with a win against already relegated Southampton which will see them finish in second place.