Arsenal's Timber Successor Revealed: Who Steps Up Against Bayer Leverkusen as Injury Crisis Shapes Crucial Lineup

Arsenal's pursuit of an historic quadruple has lacked conviction recently, yet the Gunners remain active across all four competitions.

This Tuesday, they aim to prevent an unexpected Champions League exit against Bayer Leverkusen, after encountering difficulties in Germany during the first leg. They were lucky to leave the BayArena with a stalemate following Robert Andrich's header that put Leverkusen ahead early in the second period.

A questionable penalty decision allowed Kai Havertz to level the score from twelve yards in the final moments. The German calmly slotted home his attempt at his previous club to give Arsenal a slight edge in the tie, with the scores even and the return fixture taking place in London.

Nevertheless, the Gunners will face a stern test from Kasper Hjulmand's team if they produce another lackluster performance in the second leg.

Timber a Fresh Injury Concern

Timber a Fresh Injury Concern

Arsenal's first-choice right-back, Jurriën Timber, endured a difficult Saturday evening. A tackle from Everton's Iliman Ndiaye caught the Dutchman on the ankle, and he was also seen clutching his groin area before Arteta substituted him during the opening period.

No significant updates emerged regarding his condition following the thrilling victory, but the short recovery time suggests his participation on Tuesday appears doubtful.

Cristhian Mosquera came on as his substitute in the previous match, and the promising Spanish defender might be selected for Leverkusen's arrival.

Arsenal's other defensive fitness issues have been recently resolved, though they remain without skipper Martin Ødegaard due to a knee problem, while Leandro Trossard has been absent for consecutive matches after sustaining an injury at Mansfield Town.

Mikel Merino had foot surgery at the beginning of 2026 and may return for the season's final stretch.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Bayer Leverkusen (4-2-3-1)

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Bayer Leverkusen (4-2-3-1)

GK: David Raya—The Spanish goalkeeper remarkably extended his Premier League clean sheet record on Saturday, though he was beaten in Leverkusen during the first encounter, with the German side outsmarting Arsenal from a dead ball situation.

RB: Cristhian Mosquera—Mosquera has been favored over Ben White as Timber's deputy lately, with the Spaniard better equipped to match Timber's impressive physical presence.

CB: William Saliba—Saliba returned to action for the opening leg following a short injury layoff, and barring any unexpected developments on game day, the Frenchman will retain his position.

CB: Gabriel—The defensive stalwart endured a challenging evening against young Christian Kofane previously, and Kasper Hjulmand faces an important choice regarding his forward selection, considering Patrik Schick has recovered from injury.

LB: Piero Hincapié—Max Dowman rightfully grabbed the spotlight on Saturday night, but Hincapié contributed significantly as well. The attacking fullback set up the late breakthrough for Viktor Gyökeres somewhat fortunately, yet he positioned himself perfectly after Jordan Pickford's misjudgment.

CM: Martín Zubimendi—Zubimendi was dominated by Leverkusen's midfield pairing in the first leg, so he'll be eager to make his mark on this tie at the second opportunity.

CM: Declan Rice—Rice served as Arsenal's key performer in last season's knockout rounds, delivering numerous crucial displays when it mattered most. The Gunners require the Englishman at his comprehensive best against Leverkusen's skillful central partnership.

RW: Bukayo Saka—Withdrawn after sixty minutes previously, Saka has found form elusive since the north London derby, but Arteta would be taking a significant risk not starting him for such a crucial encounter.

AM: Eberechi Eze—Eze's recent run in the starting eleven may persist here, with the Englishman most capable of unlocking Leverkusen's defense through his inventive abilities. Kai Havertz could also be considered to operate behind the striker.

LW: Gabriel Martinelli—Trossard's absence means Martinelli will likely earn another opportunity on Arsenal's left flank. The Brazilian continues to lack consistency, though he's provided crucial moments in cup competitions this campaign.

ST: Viktor Gyökeres—The Swedish forward often promises more than he delivers, but his goals are becoming increasingly important. He was neutralized a week ago, yet Arteta may rely on him again on Tuesday after producing the decisive moment at the weekend.