Arsenal centre-back Jurrien Timber will not be available for the 2026 World Cup after the Netherlands were unable to get him back from a groin problem in time, the Dutch football authorities confirmed. The 24-year-old was ruled out on medical grounds, ending his tournament hopes before Group F begins.
The Dutch FA said Timber’s recovery has not reached a sufficient level to allow participation in a “medically responsible” way. In practical terms, that means he is not considered fit enough to compete at the highest level over the tournament period.
Quick facts
- Jurrien Timber will miss the 2026 World Cup due to an inability to recover from a groin injury.
- The Dutch FA cited lack of progress to participate in a “medically responsible” manner.
- His withdrawal comes before the Netherlands’ Group F schedule in North America.
- Netherlands’ Group F opponents are Japan, Sweden and Tunisia.
- Lutsharel Geertruida is set to replace Timber in Ronald Koeman’s squad.
- The Netherlands begin their campaign against Japan in Dallas on Sunday.
Timber’s absence is a significant loss for Ronald Koeman’s side as they prepare for their Group F campaign in North America. The Netherlands will take on Japan, Sweden and Tunisia, and losing a key defender adds pressure to their back-line before the matches get underway.
Timber’s injury issues had already been affecting his season, with the groin problem troubling him during the closing stages of Arsenal’s Premier League title-winning run. Despite that, he featured for 54 minutes in Arsenal’s Champions League final loss to Paris St Germain on penalties on May 30.
Koeman will now reshape his defensive options, with Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida coming into the squad to replace Timber. The change disrupts the manager’s plans just days before the Netherlands kick off their tournament against Japan in Dallas on Sunday.
