Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman has voiced concerns over Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber's availability for the upcoming World Cup, as the player continues to struggle with a groin injury that has kept him sidelined since mid-March.
Timber's recovery described as 'rollercoaster ride'
Speaking to reporters, Koeman described Timber's recovery process as a 'rollercoaster ride' and admitted that the defender's chances of making the World Cup squad currently 'do not look rosy'. Timber has been working hard to regain fitness in time for Arsenal's Champions League final later this month, but his progress has been inconsistent.
Depay expected to be fit
In more positive news, Koeman remains hopeful that star striker Memphis Depay, the Netherlands' all-time leading scorer, will be fit for the tournament. Depay has been out since late March with a thigh injury, but Koeman expects him to gain match fitness with his club Corinthians in the coming weeks. 'We anticipate he will play in Corinthians' remaining three matches and potentially complete 90 minutes in the final game before joining the national team,' Koeman said.
Other injury concerns
The Netherlands will also be without three other injured players: Matthijs de Ligt, Jerdy Schouten, and Xavi Simons. The team is set to compete in Group F against Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia at the World Cup.
Koeman's comments underscore the challenges facing the Dutch squad as they prepare for the tournament, with Timber's situation particularly concerning given his importance to the team's defensive setup.
