Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber says he is “on the right track” in his recovery from injury as he targets a return before the World Cup with the Netherlands.
Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has delivered a positive update on his injury recovery, insisting he remains hopeful of returning in time for both the Champions League final and this summer’s FIFA World Cup with the Netherlands.
Speaking to Dutch broadcaster Ziggo Sport, Timber reflected on Arsenal’s Premier League title celebrations after the club ended its 22-year wait for the trophy earlier this week.
The Dutch defender revealed that he joined teammates Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze, and Bukayo Saka at the Emirates Stadium on the night Arsenal were crowned champions. Timber admitted he underestimated how emotional the celebrations would become among supporters.
According to Timber, the players initially expected a quiet atmosphere at the stadium before crowds rapidly gathered around them. He explained that seeing the joy among fans helped him fully understand what winning the league meant to the club and its supporters.
Despite enjoying the celebrations, Timber is still focused on recovering from the injury that has sidelined him since March. The 24-year-old has missed several important matches in recent months during Arsenal’s title-winning campaign.
Ahead of the Champions League final in Budapest against PSG, Jurrien Timber simply must be fit and start at right-back.
He is one of the best right-backs in the world: elite in duels, rock-solid positionally, calm under pressure, and almost impossible to beat.
Without him,… https://t.co/582UqDKAlA
— Omeiza (@Afcmusab) May 22, 2026
Timber confirmed that his rehabilitation is progressing well and revealed he is training intensely in hopes of making a comeback soon. He is targeting a possible return for Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on May 31.
Although encouraged by his progress, the defender admitted there is still uncertainty surrounding his availability for the World Cup. Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman is expected to announce his squad soon, and Timber acknowledged there are no guarantees regarding his fitness.
The Arsenal defender described the injury setback as mentally difficult, especially after enjoying a largely injury-free spell following his previous long-term absence. He admitted missing major matches had been frustrating but expressed pride in Arsenal’s achievements this season and determination to return as quickly as possible.
Timber also confirmed he has remained in regular contact with Koeman throughout his recovery process. While refusing to make firm promises about his World Cup participation, the Dutch international maintained an optimistic outlook, saying he feels he is “on the right track” and still believes there is a strong possibility he will travel with the Netherlands to the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
