Netherlands

Arsenal have been dealt an unexpected blow during the international break as Jurrien Timber has been forced to withdraw from the Netherlands national team due to illness. The Dutch FA confirmed that the Gunners defender has been replaced by Ian Maatsen in the squad, raising concerns over his availability for Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures. Timber Ruled Out by Netherlands Timber was originally called up for international duty as he continues to work his way back to full fitness after recovering from a long-term knee injury earlier this season. However, the Dutch FA issued a statement this afternoon confirming that the 22-year-old will not be able to participate in the upcoming fixtures due to illness. In his place, Borussia Dortmund left-back Ian Maatsen has been drafted into the squad. For Arsenal, this news comes as a concern, given Timber's importance to Mikel Arteta’s defensive setup. The versatile defender has only recently returned to full training after a lengthy layoff and was slowly being reintegrated into the squad. The hope was that international duty would provide him with valuable minutes to regain match sharpness. LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 16: Jurrien Timber of Arsenal applauds the fans after the team's victory in the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Chelsea FC at Emirates Stadium on March 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images) Concerns Over His Arsenal Return While there is no indication yet that Timber’s illness is serious, Arsenal will be monitoring his condition closely. With a crucial run of fixtures coming up, including the Premier League clash against Fulham and the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid, the Gunners will be eager to have him back at full strength as soon as possible. Timber’s versatility makes him a key asset for Arsenal. Capable of playing as a right-back, center-back, or even as an inverted full-back, his tactical intelligence and composure on the ball provide Arteta with additional defensive options. The Dutchman was expected to play a key role in the title run-in, and any prolonged absence could force the manager into a reshuffle. Arsenal Fans Await Updates For Arsenal fans, the primary concern will be whether Timber will be fit for selection after the international break. The club will likely provide updates in the coming days, but for now, supporters will be hoping that his withdrawal from the Netherlands squad is merely a precautionary measure rather than a sign of a more serious issue. With the business end of the season approaching, Arsenal cannot afford more setbacks, especially in defense. Timber’s return was seen as a timely boost for the squad, but now, all eyes will be on his recovery ahead of the crucial fixtures in April. As it stands, Arsenal’s medical team will assess Timber upon his return to North London, and fans will be anxiously awaiting news on whether he will be available for selection in the coming weeks.

Netherlands

Important Arsenal Star Gets Sick While With His National Team