Soccer Stars Face Injuries Ahead of 2026 World Cup

As the World Cup approaches, injuries to key soccer players are becoming a major concern. Lionel Messi is among those under scrutiny, adding to the list of players like Lamine Yamal who are dealing with health issues.

Kylian Mbappé and Mohamed Salah have recovered from their injuries in time for the event. However, Lionel Messi, a key figure for Argentina, experienced a possible injury in a recent game with Inter Miami. He was seen clutching his left hamstring, raising concern for his participation.

Current Injury Concerns

Spanish talent Lamine Yamal has been out due to a muscle injury but is expected to recover in time for the World Cup. Unfortunately, other players are not as lucky.

Hugo Ekitike of France suffered an Achilles injury, potentially sidelining him from not only the World Cup but also the start of the next season with Liverpool. Brazil’s Rodrygo and Éder Militão are confirmed to miss the tournament. Similarly, Serge Gnabry from Bayern Munich and Germany is out due to an adductor injury sustained during training.

Impact of a Tight Schedule

The escalating demand on players from rigorous schedules is raising alarms. The World Cup’s expansion follows an already tighter football calendar, which includes a larger Club World Cup and an expanded Champions League. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has likened the current demands to an “accident waiting to happen.”

Players face immense pressure to stay injury-free as the World Cup looms.

A general view of the FIFA World Cup 2026 signage at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on a recent Sunday.

Players Ruled Out of the World Cup

• Argentina: Joaquín Panichelli (ACL)
• Brazil: Éder Militão (hamstring), Rodrygo (ACL)
• England: Ben White (medial ligament)
• France: Hugo Ekitike (Achilles)
• Germany: Serge Gnabry (adductor)
• Netherlands: Xavi Simons (ACL)
• United States: Cameron Carter-Vickers (Achilles), Patrick Agyemang (Achilles)

Players to Keep an Eye On

• Algeria: Goalkeeper Luca Zidane might miss the World Cup due to a facial injury.
• Argentina: Cristian Romero is uncertain for the World Cup, recovering from a knee injury.
• Canada: Alphonso Davies injured his hamstring recently, raising doubts about his participation.
• Croatia: Luka Modrić and Joško Gvardiol have both recently returned from injuries.
• Morocco: Achraf Hakimi is dealing with a thigh injury.
• United States: Johnny Cardoso and Chris Richards face challenges due to recent injuries.