Arsenal Must Make The Defeat Against Aston Villa A Motivation And Strength

Jurrien Timber emphasized that Arsenal must rise after losing to Aston Villa (Instagram/@arsenal).

JAKARTA - Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber wants to make his team's last-minute defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday, December 6, 2025, as motivation to return to winning the Premier League.

The Gunners' 18 unbeaten streak in all competitions ended when Emiliano Buendia scored in the last minute of the game to give Aston Villa a 2-1 win.

That day was a tough day for Mikel Arteta's side as their lead at the top of the table was cut to just two points after Manchester City beat Sunderland.

However, Timber - who has to play as a centre-back amid an injury crisis - said his team needed to take advantage of this defeat to motivate them.

"I think in the end we need to use it as motivation and strength because it has happened. We have to accept it and have to be better."

"At the same time, throughout the season, I think these moments do happen, setbacks, and you have to bounce back after," he said.

Timber, who usually plays as a right-back, was forced to play in the middle due to injuries suffered by centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel.

Crithian Mosquera also had to be sidelined for weeks due to ankle problems. Timber said the fitness issue had disrupted Arsenal's performance.

"Yes, it is (disturbation). I think we have a great squad. I think players who come always play very well, but obviously it's not always easy."

"We can't play every week with the same players. If there are players who have to miss again, it's difficult. However, I think it's also part of the competition, it happens all season round."

"I think it happens at every club. For us, the situation is the same. We just need to manage it and win our game," he said.

Meanwhile, for Aston Villa, the win marked their entry into the title competition, leaving them now only three points adrift of Arsenal.

Unai Emery's side are in their best form, winning nine of their last 10 Premier League games.

They had taken the lead at Villa Park through a cash opening goal, but were equalized by Leandro Trossard at the start of the second half. Buendia's lead sparked a festive celebration at the end of the match.

"We have to go through the game after the game and keep working hard and live it calmly. Right now, we are in good form, but we know it's not even Christmas yet."

"We must continue to demand, continue to be consistent, and we'll see," Cash said on the club's website.