Netherlands coach Xabi Hernández is reportedly unhappy with Jurrien Timber’s performance during last night’s match, with the manager believed to have expressed concerns about several aspects of the Arsenal defender’s display.
Timber was given an important role in the Netherlands’ defensive setup, but his performance failed to meet the standards expected by Hernández. Although the defender showed moments of quality and helped his team maintain control during parts of the game, there were also several situations that reportedly frustrated the manager.
One of the biggest concerns was Timber’s decision-making when the Netherlands were under pressure. Hernández wanted his defenders to remain calm and make quick, accurate decisions when building from the back. However, Timber occasionally appeared uncomfortable when facing pressure from the opposition, leading to misplaced passes and moments where possession was unnecessarily surrendered.
The manager was also reportedly unhappy with Timber’s positioning. Hernández had instructed his defensive players to maintain their shape and communicate constantly, particularly when the opposition attempted to attack through the wide areas. Timber was involved in several situations where he appeared to be caught out of position, forcing his teammates to cover for him.
Despite the criticism, Hernández is understood to recognize Timber’s ability and believes the Arsenal star can improve. The Dutch defender has established himself as an important player because of his versatility, defensive intelligence and ability to play in multiple positions.
Timber’s ability to operate as both a full-back and central defender has made him valuable to both Arsenal and the Netherlands. However, Hernández reportedly wants more consistency from the player, particularly in major international matches where small mistakes can have serious consequences.
The coach is also believed to have spoken to Timber after the match, making it clear that he expects a stronger performance in the next international fixture. Rather than completely losing faith in the defender, Hernández reportedly wants him to learn from his mistakes and respond positively.
For Timber, the criticism comes at an important stage of his career. The Arsenal defender has worked hard to establish himself as one of the Netherlands’ reliable defensive options after overcoming difficult periods earlier in his career.
His performances for Arsenal have shown that he possesses the quality to compete at the highest level. His pace, technical ability and confidence in possession make him particularly useful in a modern defensive system.
However, international football demands concentration and consistency, and Hernández reportedly believes Timber must improve in those areas.
The defender will now have an opportunity to respond on the pitch. A strong performance in the Netherlands’ next match could help ease concerns surrounding his display and demonstrate that last night was only a temporary setback.
Hernández is expected to continue monitoring Timber closely, especially with important international fixtures ahead. The manager wants every player in his squad to understand that reputation alone does not guarantee a starting position.
For Timber, the message is simple: improve, remain focused and show why he deserves to be one of the Netherlands’ leading defenders.
The coming matches will reveal whether the Arsenal star can respond to the criticism and regain the full confidence of his manager.
