NEWYou can now listen to PK Press Club articles!
Ronald Koeman gave an update on Jurrien Timber’s physical condition.
The Arsenal defender is suffering from a groin problem and could miss the Champions League final – with his participation in the World Cup now in doubt.
Koeman provides update on Timber’s fitness
Timber face an uncertain end to the season after Netherlands boss Koeman issued a worrying update on the defender’s condition.
The 24-year-old is suffering from a groin injury which has kept him out of action for Arsenal during a crucial stage of their campaign.
Timber has not played since limping off during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Everton on March 14.
His absence has forced manager Mikel Arteta to adjust his defensive options as the club push for major honours.
The Gunners still have two key matches remaining: a Premier League clash against Crystal Palace and the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Koeman questions defender’s return
Koeman acknowledged that Timber’s recovery remains uncertain as the season approaches its climax and international tournaments loom.
‘Jurrien has been dealing with this for a while,’ Koeman said Ziggo Rondo Program. “He is training again to see if he can reach the Champions League final and if he is available for the World Cup. It doesn’t look rosy at the moment.”
The blow comes at a crucial time of the season
Timber had become an important part of Arsenal’s defensive system this season, appearing in 43 matches in all competitions. However, his groin injury came at the worst possible time.
Arsenal are closing in on their first league title in 22 years while preparing for the biggest European match in the club’s recent history.
For Timber personally, the stakes are just as high. Missing the Champions League final would be a major disappointment, but Koeman’s comments suggest his participation in the next World Cup could also be in jeopardy.
Race against time for Arsenal defender
Arsenal will first focus on their final league match against Palace before turning their attention to the Champions League final against PSG.
Meanwhile, Timber continues his recovery and training with the aim of returning before the World Cup.
FIFA World Cup 2026: how to watch
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Spread across three countries, the tournament will culminate with the final on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. All 104 tournament games will be broadcast live on FOX (70) and FS1 (34), with each game streamed live and on-demand in the FOX One and FOX Sports apps. A record 40 games, more than a third of the tournament, will be broadcast in prime time on FOX (21) and FS1 (19).
The June 11 opening match between Mexico and South Africa (3 p.m. ET) will be streamed for free on Tubi, along with the United States’ opening match against Paraguay on June 12 (9 p.m. ET).
