ZEIST, Netherlands — A strategic shift has seen Jurriën Timber emerge as a pivotal figure for the Dutch national team, staking his claim for a World Cup starting berth. The versatile defender, lauded for his explosive form as a right-back at Arsenal, has seamlessly transitioned into a central defensive partnership with captain Virgil van Dijk for Oranje, creating a formidable barrier ahead of crucial international qualifiers.

While his international role as a center-back alongside Van Dijk is relatively new, Timber has been nothing short of sensational for Arsenal, who currently lead the English Premier League and harbor dreams of their first league title since 2004. Playing predominantly at right-back for Mikel Arteta’s side, the 24-year-old Utrecht native has garnered widespread acclaim. Two weeks ago, following a victory over Crystal Palace, The Daily Express hailed him as “perhaps the best player at Arsenal.”

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has publicly praised Timber’s comprehensive skill set, stating, “If you speak about a complete player, he has all the qualities you want to see in a defender.” Such is his impact that Arsenal is reportedly negotiating to improve and extend his contract, which currently runs until 2028. This speaks volumes about his value to the London club and his burgeoning reputation in one of the world’s most competitive football leagues.

For the Netherlands, national team coach Ronald Koeman has found an unlikely yet effective solution by pairing Timber with Van Dijk at the heart of the defense. After two clean sheet victories against Malta (4-0) and Finland (4-0) in the previous international window, the duo is set to face a tougher test against Poland. Koeman’s confidence in Timber is evident: “There is no reason to change that,” he remarked in October, commending Timber for his “calmness on the ball” and “courage to dribble forward.”

This central role is a departure for Timber, who had previously featured as part of a back three under Louis van Gaal at the Qatar World Cup, alongside Van Dijk and Nathan Aké. However, partnering in a two-man central defense is a new experience. Van Dijk, the long-standing defensive anchor, has expressed his delight. “He is in top form,” Van Dijk stated in October, adding, “It’s a joy to watch.”

Timber, known for his humility, responded to Van Dijk’s praise with a wry smile: “Did he say that? I wouldn’t say that about myself, but I can’t complain either. Things are going well. Made great strides in Oranje, things are good at Arsenal. Shall I just say I’m going with the flow?” He added, “Virgil is a top player, one of the best defenders in the world. For me, it’s mainly about seeing how I can best complement him. I think that went well, and hopefully we can build from here.”

The former Ajax academy product has also earned consistent praise from renowned pundits. On the popular podcast The Rest is Football, former England international and BBC presenter Gary Lineker described Timber as an “exceptional footballer.” While Arsenal supporters, perhaps not entirely unbiased, have even dubbed him the best right-back in the Premier League, Koeman’s tactical decision for Oranje highlights a strategic approach to squad building.

With Denzel Dumfries firmly established as the starting right-back, Timber’s move to central defense creates a need for a reliable backup. This tactical ripple effect has seen Koeman recall the versatile Lutsharel Geertruida to the squad. Furthermore, the return of Matthijs de Ligt, who has 34 international appearances alongside Van Dijk, signals further competition, coming at the expense of Stefan de Vrij, a starter in central defense at the last European Championship.

The signs are clear: if Timber maintains his top form for both club and country, a starting position at next summer’s World Cup beckons. “That is never a given, but it is the goal,” Timber acknowledged, embracing the challenge. His current trajectory makes him one of international football’s most compelling stories, a testament to adaptability and sheer defensive prowess that could prove vital for the Netherlands on the global stage.