Arsenal Star Out of 2026 World Cup Due to Injury

Dutch defender Jurrien Timber was ruled out of the 2026 World Cup on Monday after a groin injury that has limited the 24‑year‑old Arsenal player since mid‑March.

Timber appeared for Arsenal in the Champions League final against Paris Saint‑Germain, playing 55 minutes a little over a week ago. Despite the high ranking of the Dutch side, they determined he would not be fit enough for the demands of the World Cup.

The decision came as the Netherlands were preparing for their final warm‑up match against Uzbekistan on Monday in New York.

Also Read: Timber Is The Best Full‑back In EPL –Man United Legend

“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,” the Dutch team said in a statement (via AP). “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.”

Timber will be replaced by Sunderland defender Lutsharel Geertruida, who had been on manager Ronald Koeman’s stand‑by list.

The Dutch side will head to base camp in Kansas City, Missouri, after the New York match. Their World Cup opener is June 14 against Japan in Dallas, followed by matches against Sweden on June 20 in Houston and Tunisia on June 25 in Kansas City.

James Agberebi

James is a sport content creator and also does analysis on sports. Also, James has covered international matches involving both Nigeria’s men and women national teams. Facebook : James Agberebi