Jurrien Timber, sidelined with injury, admits 'it will be hard' to watch the World Cup from home

Jurrien Timber, aged 24, had to pull out of the Netherlands' World Cup squad before their last pre-tournament friendly against Uzbekistan on 8 June. The Arsenal defender failed to recover from a groin injury in time, so Sunderland's Lutsharel Geertruida took his place.

Timber travelled from New York, where the Netherlands played Uzbekistan, to Miami for a holiday. He will then return to London next week for further scans and to start his rehabilitation.

In an interview with the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Timber discussed the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup.

"Naturally, I have already taken part in a European Championship and a World Cup, but I never thought I would miss the Euros and a World Cup because of injury. That is simply unfortunate," said Timber, who also missed the 2024 European Championship with a torn ACL.

"There is not a great deal you can do about an ACL injury, but it remains a nuisance. Unfortunately, it is part and parcel of football. It is a risk you accept when playing at the highest level. It is a massive disappointment, because missing a European Championship or World Cup is a huge setback. Tournaments of that nature do not occur very frequently."

Timber believes he will only return stronger from this injury, which has sidelined him for most of 2026. "In my head, I am already thinking about what lies ahead. That is why I am taking a break now. I think it is beneficial to step back for a while, rest, and have no obligations.

"At the same time, I am already excited to demonstrate my ability and take the next step. To develop as a person and also as a player. I am genuinely looking forward to that already. I simply want to recover as quickly as possible, feel well, and resume playing football."

Twin brother vying for gold

Timber, who has won 23 caps for the Netherlands, will have to view the tournament from his home. Watching the Netherlands' matches will carry added significance for Timber, as his twin brother, Olympique Marseille midfielder Quinten Timber, is included in the Dutch 26-player squad.

"The first match will be the toughest to watch, but I will attempt to take pleasure in seeing my younger brother out there. I understand how special it is to be present. I know the boys will perform well. I am really eager to watch the games."

Seeing Quinten win the World Cup with Oranje would mean even more to Jurrien, he admitted: "I would rather he win it than I would win it myself. But I am supporting the entire team to take the world title. They are my friends. I know those boys inside out."