Netherlands Lose Jurrien Timber to Groin Injury, Call Up Geertruida
Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has been ruled out of the 2026 World Cup with a groin injury, with Sunderland's Lutsharel Geertruida drafted in as his replacement just days before the tournament opens.
Topline
- Jurrien Timber is out of the 2026 World Cup with a groin injury.
- The KNVB confirmed the withdrawal on Monday after weeks of doubt.
- Lutsharel Geertruida has been called up as his replacement.
- It is the second straight major tournament Timber misses through injury.
Full Report
World Cup DeskThe Netherlands have suffered a significant blow on the eve of the World Cup, with **Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber** ruled out of the tournament due to a **groin injury**. The KNVB confirmed the news on Monday, ending weeks of speculation over the 24-year-old's fitness.
A Lingering Problem Catches Up
Timber had been struggling with the groin issue for several weeks and was included in the initial travelling party to New York. Despite featuring in the Champions League final for Arsenal, the defender ultimately conceded he was not recovered enough to take part "in a medically responsible manner." Ronald Koeman's side must now reshape their defensive plans on the fly.
Geertruida Steps In
Lutsharel Geertruida
, who moved to Sunderland and was originally placed on standby, has been called up as the replacement. His versatility — capable of operating at right-back or in central defence — makes him a logical fit. Geertruida already featured in the Netherlands' June 3 friendly against Algeria and is therefore integrated with the group.
A Cruel Pattern
For Timber, the withdrawal marks the second consecutive major international tournament he has missed through injury, having sat out Euro 2024 while recovering from a serious cruciate ligament problem. His absence deprives the Dutch of a composed, multi-functional defender just as they prepare to open their campaign.
Keep Exploring This Story
Team, squad, group, and match pages connected to this update.
Netherlands
Group F · Rank #7
Algeria
Group J · Rank #39