The KNVB have confirmed that Jurrien Timber will miss the World Cup as a result of the groin injury that has troubled him throughout the closing months of the season.
The right-back sustained the issue in March and spent 10 weeks on the sidelines before making himself available for Arsenal’s Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain 10 days ago.
Introduced in the 66th minute as a replacement for Cristhian Mosquera, Timber ultimately played more than an hour as the match went to extra time and penalties. At the time, his involvement was viewed as an encouraging sign ahead of a potential call-up for the Netherlands, who have also selected his twin brother, Quinten, for the tournament.
However, it appears both player and country have now decided that sitting out the competition is the best course of action.
In a statement released on Monday evening, the KNVB said:
“Jurrien Timber misses the 2026 World Cup. The 24-year-old defender has not recovered sufficiently from a groin injury to take part in the World Cup in a medically responsible manner.
“In consultation with the medical staff, it has therefore been decided that Timber will leave the national team’s pre-camp in New York after the game against Uzbekistan. We’re with you, Jurrien.”
Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida has been called up as his replacement.
The focus now shifts to Timber’s recovery and whether a period of rest will be enough to resolve the problem. Arsenal’s medical staff will also be keen to establish whether surgery is required if he is to be fully fit for the start of next season.
A tough one to take, we wish him all the best.