Arsenal's Jurrien Timber Misses Netherlands Training After Injury

Arsenal full‑back Jurrien Timber is sidelined from the Netherlands’ training session as he continues to heal from a groin problem. After a Champions League final cameo, he earned a call‑up to Xavi’s first Oranje squad but is now training solo under a tailored program. His fitness for the upcoming N…

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 22 Sep 2026 18:58:21 GMT

Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber was seen sitting alone on the sidelines during the Dutch national team’s open training session on Tuesday, a clear sign that the full‑back is still on a cautious recovery path from a troublesome groin injury. The 24‑year‑old missed large parts of last season as he struggled to regain match fitness, but a substitute appearance in the Champions League final was enough to earn him a place in Xavi’s inaugural Netherlands squad. However, the return to international duty has hit a snag.

From Champions League Hero to International Absence

Timber’s journey back to the pitch began with a late‑season injury that kept him out for most of 2023. After a slow start to his recovery, he was given a chance to prove himself in the Champions League final, coming off the bench in a 2‑1 win over Manchester City. The performance was a personal triumph and a statement to the Dutch coaching staff that he was ready for the next step.

His inclusion in Xavi’s first Oranje squad was a milestone, not only for the player but also for the national team, which has been in a period of transition since Ronald Koeman’s departure after the World Cup. Xavi, a former Barcelona legend, is the first foreign manager to take charge of the Dutch side since Ernst Happel in 1978.

Individual Training Programme Under Scrutiny

During the recent training session, Timber was the sole player not participating in the group drills. Dutch media outlet VI reported that he is following an individual training programme designed to manage his return to competitive play. Arsenal’s coaching staff have reportedly reached out to the national team’s coaches to coordinate a suitable modified training plan that balances the player’s rehabilitation with the team’s preparation.

Both parties are adopting a conservative approach to avoid a re‑injury, a concern that has been echoed by medical staff across both clubs. The focus is on gradual load management, ensuring that Timber can handle the intensity of international fixtures without compromising his long‑term fitness.

Implications for Upcoming Nations League Matches

Timber’s availability for the Netherlands’ forthcoming Nations League fixtures remains uncertain. The team’s first match of the window is a home game against Germany on Thursday, with a 7:45 pm BST kick‑off. This will also mark Xavi’s managerial debut. Other upcoming opponents include Serbia and Greece, and the coaching staff will need to decide whether to field a full back with a recent groin injury.

The decision will hinge on the player’s progress in the next few days and the medical assessment of his readiness. If Timber can demonstrate sufficient recovery, he could provide depth in the full‑back positions, especially given the tactical flexibility required against diverse European opponents.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Timber?

Arsenal’s coaching team will continue to monitor Timber’s rehabilitation closely, coordinating with the Dutch national team’s medical staff. The player’s focus will be on regaining full mobility and strength in his groin, while also maintaining match sharpness through controlled training sessions.

Should he return to full fitness, Timber could become a key component of both Arsenal’s defensive line and the Netherlands’ back three, offering pace, crossing ability, and defensive solidity. Until then, the player will likely remain on a tailored training regime, with his future appearances dependent on his recovery trajectory.

In the meantime, the Dutch squad will proceed with its training, preparing for the high‑stakes Nations League matches that could define Xavi’s tenure and the team’s standing in European football.

Key facts

Arsenal full‑back Jurrien Timber is training alone with the Netherlands squad.
He suffered a groin injury that kept him out most of last season.
A Champions League final cameo earned him a call‑up to Xavi’s first Oranje squad.
Arsenal and Dutch staff are coordinating a cautious individual training plan.
His fitness for the Nations League matches against Germany, Serbia, and Greece is uncertain.

Why it matters

Timber’s injury and recovery process exemplify the challenges clubs and national teams face in managing player fitness, especially when a key player’s availability could influence both club and country outcomes.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Jurrien Timber not training with the rest of the Dutch squad?

He is following a tailored individual training programme to manage his groin injury recovery and avoid re‑injury.

Will Timber play in the upcoming match against Germany?

His participation depends on his progress in the next few days and the medical assessment of his readiness.

What role does Arsenal play in Timber’s recovery?

Arsenal’s coaching and medical staff are coordinating with the Dutch national team to ensure a suitable training plan that balances rehabilitation with competitive readiness.