Arteta Hints at Surprise Defensive Solution as Arsenal Face Right-Back Injury Crisis
Mikel Arteta has admitted that Arsenal may need to explore multiple options at right-back after injuries to Jurrien Timber and Ben White left the position severely depleted at a crucial point in the season.
Timber is currently recovering from injury, while Ben White picked up a fresh setback during Arsenal’s narrow 1-0 victory over West Ham United last weekend. White is now expected to miss the remainder of the campaign, increasing concerns among supporters ahead of the club’s final Premier League fixtures and the upcoming UEFA Champions League Final.
One player being considered as a temporary solution is Cristhian Mosquera, a natural centre-back who has previously featured in the right-back role. When asked about the possibility, Arteta did not confirm a specific choice but made it clear that Arsenal are assessing several alternatives depending on the opponent and tactical demands.
The Arsenal boss emphasized that the team must remain flexible, noting that injuries can happen at any time and require immediate adaptation. He pointed out that the squad has already faced several positional setbacks this season and has consistently found ways to maintain performance levels despite the disruptions.
Arteta’s comments suggest that while Mosquera is a possible option, the final decision may depend on match context, defensive shape, and the fitness of other available players as Arsenal approach one of the most decisive periods of their season.
Opinion: Arsenal’s Title and European Ambitions May Depend on Arteta’s Tactical Flexibility
Injuries at this stage of the season are often the difference between success and heartbreak, and Arsenal’s current situation at right-back could hardly come at a worse time. Losing both Timber and White forces Arteta into a difficult balancing act just as the club enters its most important matches.
What makes this situation interesting is Arteta’s refusal to commit to a single replacement. That may frustrate fans looking for certainty, but it also reflects a manager who is carefully protecting tactical flexibility. In modern football, especially in finals and title run-ins, adaptability can be just as valuable as star quality.
Using Cristhian Mosquera at right-back could be a practical move, particularly against stronger opponents where defensive solidity matters more than attacking overlap. However, it also comes with risk, as shifting a centre-back wide may affect Arsenal’s usual build-up patterns and attacking rhythm.
The bigger picture is that Arsenal’s depth is now being tested in the most demanding way possible. If Arteta can successfully navigate this injury crisis and still deliver strong results, it will further strengthen the argument that his squad has matured into genuine contenders at the highest level.
For Arsenal fans, the hope is simple: that the replacements can perform like starters. Because in a season defined by fine margins, one defensive decision could shape everything.
