Jurriën Timber ruled out of World Cup with groin injury

Netherlands and Arsenal defender Jurriën Timber has been forced to miss the FIFA World Cup after a groin injury, leaving the Dutch squad without a key defensive midfielder. The strain was diagnosed during a training session and is expected to keep him sidelined for six to eight weeks.

Timber had been a cornerstone of the Netherlands' midfield, offering both defensive solidity and ball progression. Coach Louis van Gaal will have to reshuffle the lineup, giving younger talents a chance to step up.

Arsenal will also manage his rehabilitation, focusing on a gradual return to club action later in the season.