Injury Updates for Key Players Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, fans and teams alike are closely monitoring the injury status of key players. With the tournament set to begin on June 11 and conclude on July 19, any major injury could have a significant impact on a player’s chances of competing. From top-tier superstars to role players, no one is immune to the risk of injury.
Below is an updated list of players who may miss the tournament due to recent injuries:
Players Out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Due to Injury
Rodrygo (FW, Brazil)
The Real Madrid winger tore his ACL in early March, leaving him unable to recover in time for the World Cup. His recovery will likely take several months, affecting both his club and national team participation.
Hugo Ekitike (FW, France)
Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike suffered a torn Achilles tendon in mid-April during a Champions League quarterfinal match against Paris Saint-Germain. This injury is among the most severe for a professional athlete, with a recovery time of nine to twelve months.
Serge Gnabry (FW, Germany)
Bayern Munich’s Serge Gnabry sustained a serious adductor tear during the Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid. He will require surgery and a three to four-month recovery period, ruling him out of the World Cup.
Xavi Simons (MF, Netherlands)
Tottenham’s Xavi Simons suffered an ACL tear in his right leg after scoring the winning goal in a match against Wolves. This injury means he will miss not only the World Cup but also the first half of the next season.
Eder Militao (CB, Brazil)
Real Madrid defender Eder Militao was forced out of the World Cup after suffering a hamstring injury that required surgery. The injury occurred in mid-April, and he is expected to be out for several months.
Mohammed Salisu (CB, Ghana)
Monaco defender Mohammed Salisu suffered a torn ACL in late January. Despite being a regular for Ghana since 2022, he will not be available for the World Cup.
Patrick Agyemang (ST, USA)
The 25-year-old striker suffered an Achilles tendon tear in early April, ending his chances of playing in the World Cup on home soil.
Players at Risk of Missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup Due to Injury
Alphonso Davies (LB/LW, Canada)
Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies has had a disrupted season due to injuries. He recently suffered a hamstring injury, and while the club estimates several weeks of recovery, his World Cup participation remains uncertain.
Takumi Minamino (MF, Japan)
Takumi Minamino suffered a torn ACL in late December, leaving him in a race against time to be ready for the World Cup. While there is a slim chance he could be included, it is highly unlikely.
Lamine Yamal (RW, Spain)
Spain’s Lamine Yamal suffered a Grade 2 hamstring strain in late April. While the recovery time is typically four to six weeks, his participation in the World Cup is still uncertain.
Achraf Hakimi (RB, Morocco)
Moroccan full-back Achraf Hakimi picked up a hamstring injury in the Champions League semifinal. The severity of the injury is unclear, but there are concerns about his availability for the early stages of the tournament.
Estevao (FW, Brazil)
Chelsea’s Estevao suffered a hamstring injury in mid-April. While some reports suggest a non-surgery recovery plan, this approach carries risks of re-injury. His participation in the World Cup remains uncertain.
Cristian Romero (CB, Argentina)
Tottenham’s Cristian Romero suffered a knee injury that could affect his World Cup chances. His recovery timeline is tight, and it is unlikely he will be fit for the tournament.
Mohamed Salah (FW, Egypt)
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah picked up a hamstring injury in late April. However, Liverpool announced that he is expected to return before the end of the season, keeping his World Cup participation intact.
Luka Modric (CM, Croatia)
Croatia’s Luka Modric suffered a broken cheekbone, which required surgery. According to reports, he is expected to recover in time for the World Cup, although concerns remain due to his age.
Mikel Merino (CM, Spain)
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino missed significant time due to a broken bone in his foot. His recovery timeline is uncertain, potentially affecting his World Cup prospects.
Johnny Cardoso (CM, USA)
Atletico Madrid’s Johnny Cardoso suffered a high-grade ankle sprain in May, putting his World Cup participation in jeopardy. His recovery is critical for his chances of making the USMNT squad.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just weeks away, the focus on player fitness is more crucial than ever. Teams will need to manage their rosters carefully, ensuring that all players are in peak condition for the tournament. As the clock ticks down, fans around the world will be watching closely to see who makes the cut and who is left behind due to injury.
