Jurriën Timber has rejoined the Netherlands squad on the training pitch, according to De Telegraaf, in a lift for the national team before its meeting with Germany. The report, published Thursday, frames his return as positive news for coach Xavi as he prepares his side for the fixture.
NOS also reported Timber's return to Oranje training, describing the session as starting in a chaotic and comical manner. VoetbalPrimeur likewise called the development a boost for Xavi, describing Timber as a doubt who is now fit in time for the Germany match.
The reports come as Xavi works toward a broader change in how the team plays. According to nrc.nl, the coach faces a complex task: he wants to transform the side into a dominant, possession-based team, but must do so with a squad that has clear weaknesses. Xavi himself has spoken about the opportunity in front of the group, telling nu.nl that the coming match could be a fine beginning for what he wants to achieve — something the team has not managed in recent years.
Taken together, the coverage points to a squad still finding its shape under Xavi, with Timber's availability easing one selection concern ahead of a demanding opponent.
What to watch next: whether Timber is included in the matchday squad against Germany, and whether Xavi's intended style of play shows up on the pitch.
