Does Arsenal currently have the 'best' defense in the Premier League?

Ian Wright attracted attention by stating that Jurrien Timber is rapidly approaching the level of Gabriel Magalhaes, indicating that Arsenal now possesses one of the highest quality defensive lines in the Premier League.

While the duo William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes continue to be praised as Arsenal's steel wall, legend Ian Wright believes another name is emerging strong enough to challenge for that position: Jurrien Timber.

This season, Gabriel Magalhaes remains an indispensable part of coach Mikel Arteta's defensive system. The Brazilian center-back maintains consistent form, is strong in duels, and effective during set pieces.

Not only a reliable defender, Gabriel also contributes crucial goals, helping Arsenal maintain one of the most impressive defensive records in the Premier League.

However, according to Ian Wright, Gabriel's excellence does not mean he is the only choice at the highest level. On the program Stick To Football, when Gary Neville asked, “Who is the best defender in the Premier League right now? Is it Gabriel?”, Wright immediately named another player: “Timber is getting very close. Of course, Gabi scores some extra goals, but Timber is genuinely playing exceptionally well,” the former Arsenal star confirmed.

The arrival of Jurrien Timber has brought new energy to Arsenal's defense. The Dutch defender is not only strong in challenges but also extremely versatile, able to play on both flanks or move centrally when needed.

His intelligent playing style, ability to read the game, and clean ball control quickly made him a perfect fit in Arteta’s system.

Most impressively, Timber has just returned from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, which sidelined him for nearly a year. Yet, immediately upon return, the 24-year-old integrated seamlessly and played as solidly as if he had never left the pitch.

From a player struggling to recover from injury, Timber is now growing into one of the most complete defenders in the Premier League. He not only reassures Arteta but also pushes stars like Gabriel and Saliba to maintain their best performances.

With such depth and quality currently, Arsenal can confidently aim for the title, as they have not just one but several top defenders performing at their peak.