Hard blow for the Netherlands: Jurrien Timber withdraws from the World Cup, Lutsharel Geertruida called up
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
Jurrien Timber (Arsenal) has withdrawn from the 2026 World Cup with the Netherlands due to a persistent groin injury. Lutsharel Geertruida (Sunderland) is called up to reinforce the Dutch group.
This is a real blow for the Dutch selection a few days before the 2026 World Cup. Jurrien Timber, Arsenal senior defender, must give up on the World Cup due to a groin injury contracted in March from which he has not fully recovered. Despite a return to training at the end of the season and participation in the Champions League final on May 30, the selection's medical staff considered his presence too risky and opted for caution.
An official statement from the Netherlands confirmed the news: “In consultation with the medical staff, it was decided that Jurrien Timber would leave the gathering after the last preparation match against Uzbekistan scheduled for June 8 in New York. » Timber, who celebrated his presence on the list with his twin brother Quinten (OM player), has already played 23 matches with the Dutch selection.
Image
The vacant place benefits Lutsharel Geertruida, right back of Sunderland. Author of a notable season in the Premier League, with 31 appearances and participation in his club's historic qualification for the Europa League, Geertruida already has 21 international caps and took part in the recent friendly against Algeria.
This package deprives the Netherlands of a key element of their defense and makes their global campaign more uncertain. Furthermore, the door seemed to open for Jeremie Frimpong, but the Liverpool full-back remains absent from the list.