Former Chelsea Player has issued a warning to an Arsenal player, suggesting that his role under Arteta is potentially harmful to his career…

A former Chelsea player has expressed concern to an Arsenal star, indicating that his role under Arteta might not serve his career well.

Former Chelsea defender Khalid Boulahrouz has expressed concerns regarding Jurrien Timber’s current “versatile” position at Arsenal, suggesting it may not be beneficial for his career.

The Gunners have made a strong start to the season, navigating challenging fixtures against Aston Villa, Tottenham, and Manchester City in their opening six matches.

Currently, Arsenal sits third in the Premier League standings following a 4-2 win over Leicester City and a 2-0 triumph against Paris Saint-Germain in their second Champions League match of the season.

Timber, who has recently returned from a lengthy injury layoff, has participated in eight matches across all competitions for Arsenal this season.

The Netherlands international has played both right-back and left-back, despite his previous experience as a center-back at Ajax.

Boulahrouz, who made 20 appearances for Chelsea, believes that Timber’s continued versatility could be detrimental to his career progression.

“Of course, he is coming back from a serious injury,” Boulahrouz stated in an interview with Ziggo Sport.

“Being in the starting lineup at such a prestigious club is a humbling experience, and you appreciate that. However, is it beneficial for your long-term career? No.

“While versatility can be advantageous occasionally, if he plays right-back, it aligns more with his natural position.

“Left-back, however, is not where he was intended to play. He has the talent to excel centrally, and he deserves that opportunity.”

Arsenal manager Arteta is enthusiastic about having Timber and Riccardo Calafiori as versatile options this season, with both players capable of filling multiple roles.

Arteta commented earlier this week: “We were without Jurrien for 11 months, and Riccy was absent as well. Both players possess a strong football intellect, intelligence, courage, quality, and the ability to adapt to various roles in both attacking and defensive situations.

Their presence adds a new dynamic to the team, making us less predictable for our opponents. Additionally, they both have significant personalities, which I greatly appreciate.

“The full-backs must share one essential trait – a passion for defending. The quality we possess is exceptional. It is crucial for full-backs to invert with their natural foot to maintain the flow and cohesion of the team.”

When asked about Timber’s character, Arteta responded: “He is a leader. He consistently thinks about how he can assist others and brings exceptional quality to everything he undertakes.

Even in the short time he has been with us and the limited time on the pitch, the high regard in which he is held by everyone speaks volumes about the character we have in our squad.

“Coming from Ajax, it was a significant transition to a different country. He arrived with high expectations, started off well, and then suffered an injury in his first match.

What happens next? You must look ahead to the next eight, nine, ten, or even twelve months, which can feel very isolating and lonely.

This situation can be quite disheartening and challenging to manage emotionally.

“However, he took a different approach. He began to forge strong relationships with the physios and his teammates, actively sought out information about our playing style, and this effort greatly enhanced his understanding of both the team dynamics and his own role, preparing him for his eventual return.”