Just nine days after the Champions League final, Dutch right-back Jurrien Timber would play no part in the World Cup. He had been replaced in the squad by Lutsharel Geertruida, who spent last season on loan at Sunderland.
The Royal Dutch Football Association said Timber had 'not recovered sufficiently' to take part in the tournament in a 'medically responsible manner'. They added that, in consultation with the medical staff, it had been decided that Timber would leave the national team's pre-camp in New York after the friendly game against Uzbekistan.
Timber could have been a key player for Netherlands in the World Cup. He has established himself as one of the best right-backs in the world since joining Arsenal from Ajax in 2023. However, he was not fit enough to play in the World Cup.
Netherlands was knocked out of the World Cup in the round-of-32 by Morocco. The team had topped Group F after beating Sweden and Tunisia and drawing with Japan. Liverpool's Cody Gakpo appeared to have sent them through to the last-16 against Morocco but the African side scored an injury-time equaliser before winning on penalties.
Timber expressed his disappointment at being unable to play in the World Cup. 'I'm heartbroken to miss the World Cup,' he said. 'Representing my country on the biggest stage is something I've always dreamed of, and it's difficult to accept that injury has taken that opportunity away from me.'
Netherlands' coach Ronald Koeman stepped down after the disappointing World Cup exit. He expressed his pride in his career, saying, 'I feel especially proud. I have worked with clubs and people that shaped me and gave me memories that I will cherish for a lifetime.'
