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Ronald Koeman has provided a worrying update on Jurrien Timbers’ fitness.
The Arsenal defender is struggling with a groin problem and could miss the Champions League final – with his participation at the World Cup also now uncertain.
Koeman delivers grim update on Timbers fitness
The Timbers face an uncertain end to the season after Dutch boss Koeman issued a worrying update on the defender’s condition.
The 24-year-old has been struggling with a groin injury which has kept him out of contention for Arsenal at a crucial stage of their campaign.
Timber has not featured since limping off in 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 games remaining: a Premier League clash against Crystal Palace and the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Koeman casts doubt on the defender’s return
Koeman acknowledged the Timbers’ recovery remains uncertain as the season nears its climax and international tournaments loom.
“The jury has been dealing with this for a while,” Koeman said Ziggo program Rondo. “He is now training again to see if he can reach the Champions League final and if he is available for the World Cup. It is not looking rosy at the moment.”
The injury 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 has come at the worst possible time.
Arsenal are closing in on their first league title in 22 years, while also preparing for the biggest European game in the club’s recent history.
For Timber personally, the stakes are just as high. Missing the Champions League final would be a huge disappointment, but Koeman’s comments suggest his participation at the upcoming World Cup could also be in jeopardy.
Race against time for Arsenal defender
Arsenal will first focus on their final league game against Palace before turning their attention to the Champions League final against PSG.
Meanwhile, Timber continues his recovery and training in an attempt to return before the World Cup.
2026 FIFA World Cup: How to watch
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Spread over three countries, the tournament will culminate with the final on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. All 104 tournament games will be broadcast live across FOX (70) and FS1 (34) with every game streaming live and on-demand on both FOX One and the FOX Sports app. A record 40 games, more than a third of the tournament, are televised in prime time across FOX (21) and FS1 (19).
The June 11 opener between Mexico and South Africa (3 p.m. ET) will stream for free on Tubi, as will the USA’s June 12 opener against Paraguay (9 p.m. ET).
