Timber had been managing the problem since mid-March, but he still featured for 55 minutes in Arsenal’s Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. That appearance offered hope that he could recover in time, yet the demands of a World Cup have proved too great.
The Netherlands’ decision not to risk him is significant. A tournament requires players to recover quickly between matches, and a defender carrying a groin issue would face repeated high-intensity tests. Timber’s absence removes a player capable of operating across the back line, as well as one with recent experience at the highest level.
Geertruida was initially left outside the main squad but now has the chance to move from standby status into a World Cup role. His late inclusion gives Koeman another experienced defensive option before the team leaves its New York pre-camp.
The change also underlines how quickly tournament plans can shift. Timber completed the Champions League final less than two weeks before the Netherlands’ opener, but the medical decision has prioritised sustained fitness over a short-term gamble.
The Netherlands are regarded as one of the stronger teams in the tournament, but their defensive balance will be tested immediately. Japan are first up in Dallas, followed by Sweden on 20 June and Tunisia on 25 June.
That schedule gives Geertruida little time to settle, while Koeman must decide whether to preserve his original structure or adjust it around the replacement. The next storyline will be how the Netherlands’ defence performs in the final warm-up and whether Geertruida can establish himself before the Japan opener.