Netherlands Lose Jurrien Timber to Groin Injury Ahead of 2026 World Cup

9 Jun 2026

The Netherlands have been dealt a major pre-tournament blow, with defender Jurrien Timber ruled out of the 2026 World Cup by a persistent groin problem. The 24-year-old had stayed with the squad hoping to recover but was not deemed ready, and will leave the camp after Monday's 2-1 friendly win over Uzbekistan. Ronald Koeman's side have called up Lutsharel Geertruida as his replacement, a switch permitted up to 24 hours before a team's opening match.