Arsenal left‑back Jurrien Timber has been ruled out of the Netherlands’ 2026 World Cup squad after a lingering groin problem. The 24‑year‑old missed action since mid‑March and only returned for the Champions League final in Budapest, coming on for Paris St‑Germain in the second half. The KNVB confirmed his withdrawal and named Sunderland loanee Lutsharel Geertruida as his replacement.

Timber’s absence hurts a defence that has relied on his pace and ball‑playing ability. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta had praised his fitness before the final, but medical staff deemed him unfit for the pre‑camp in New York. The Dutch side open Group F against Japan on 14 June, followed by Sweden and Tunisia, where Koeman must reshuffle his back line.

Across the Atlantic, Brazil’s Neymar continues to recover, with club doctors reporting steady progress ahead of the tournament. His fitness timeline remains uncertain, but any return would boost a Seleção lacking creative firepower. His gradual return keeps Brazil hopeful for a creative spark.