As the 2026 World Cup draws closer, national teams are finalizing their squads, hoping to arrive in peak condition for the most important tournament in football. However, the road to the World Cup is often fraught with setbacks, particularly for talented players whose dreams are dashed by injury. These absences, often of key figures, can dramatically alter a team’s aspirations. Several prominent players are now facing a race against time – and in many cases, a likely exclusion – from the tournament.
The expanded 48-team format for the 2026 World Cup, hosted jointly by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, means more opportunities for nations to compete, but likewise intensifies the pressure on players to remain fit. A series of significant injuries in the early months of 2026 have already thrown team plans into disarray, forcing coaches to reassess their options and prepare for potential disruptions. The impact of these injuries extends beyond individual players, affecting team dynamics and tactical approaches.
Here’s a look at some of the players whose World Cup hopes are hanging in the balance due to injury:
Brazil’s Attacking Options Diminished by Rodrygo’s Injury
Brazil will be without Rodrygo Goes for the tournament. The Real Madrid forward suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and lateral meniscus in his right knee during a La Liga match against Getafe in early March 2026. Real Madrid confirmed the diagnosis following tests on March 3rd, with Rodrygo describing it as “one of the worst days of my life.” Recovery is estimated at 7-9 months or more, ruling him out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and the World Cup. What we have is a significant blow for Brazil, losing a key attacking player alongside Vinícius and Endrick.
Argentina Faces Defensive and Attacking Concerns
Argentina is grappling with injuries to two promising players. Valentín Carboni sustained a complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament and a partial tear of the lateral collateral ligament in his right knee during a training session with the national team in late February 2026. Reports from La Nación and TyC Sports indicate a minimum recovery time of 8 months, with surgery pending. This is Carboni’s second serious ACL injury, and Scaloni will be without a promising young talent. Juan Foyth also suffered a setback, rupturing his left Achilles tendon earlier in 2026. He underwent successful surgery at the finish of the month, but faces a typical recovery period of 7-9 months or more. Multiple sources confirm his absence from the World Cup, reducing Argentina’s defensive depth.
Spain Loses a Key Goalscorer
Spain will be without Samu Aghehowa, who suffered a complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a Primeira Liga match against Sporting CP in early February 2026. Porto confirmed the diagnosis, and the player underwent successful surgery shortly after. Aghehowa expressed his devastation, calling it the “most unfortunate day” of his career. With a recovery time of 7-9 months or more, he will miss the remainder of the season and the World Cup. Spain loses a prolific goalscorer (20 goals this season) who was a strong option for Luis de la Fuente, particularly as a substitute.
England’s Midfield Depth Tested
Jack Grealish will miss the tournament after suffering a stress fracture in his left foot in January 2026 during a match against Aston Villa. He underwent surgery in early February, confirming he would miss the rest of the 2025-26 season. Grealish expressed his disappointment, and this eliminates his chances of returning to the England squad for the World Cup, despite his recent form at Everton putting him in contention.
Ghana’s Defense Weakened
Ghana will be without Mohammed Salisu, who ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in early January 2026. Dr. Prince Pambo, the Ghana national team doctor, confirmed that he requires approximately 9 months of recovery and is officially ruled out for the World Cup. Ghana loses one of its most solid defenders in Europe, significantly weakening the Black Stars’ backline.
United States Faces Defensive Uncertainty
Cameron Carter-Vickers suffered a rupture of his Achilles tendon in October 2025 during a Europa League match against Sturm Graz. Celtic confirmed he will miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season, and both the player and staff have indicated it is “very difficult” for him to be fit for the World Cup. The long recovery (9-12 months for full fitness) impacts his position under Pochettino, and the US defense already faces high competition.
Mexico’s Defensive Options Reduced
Jesús Orozco Chiquete sustained a severe ankle dislocation (with ligament and tendon damage) in December 2025 during the Apertura semi-final against Tigres. He underwent successful surgery shortly after, but coach Javier Aguirre indicated in February 2026 that he “unfortunately doesn’t think Chiquete will be ready.” He is estimated to need several more months to regain full fitness, making his participation in the World Cup highly unlikely. Mexico loses a versatile defender.
Japan Loses Captain and Key Player
Japan will be without Takumi Minamino, their key player and captain, who suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee at the end of 2025. He has been ruled out of the tournament.
These injuries represent a significant challenge for the affected national teams as they prepare for the expanded 2026 World Cup. Coaches will need to adapt their strategies and identify replacements to fill the voids left by these key players. The coming months will be crucial as teams assess their options and finalize their squads, hoping to mitigate the impact of these unfortunate setbacks. The tournament promises to be competitive, and the absence of these stars will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of the competition.
As teams continue to navigate the final stages of preparation, further injuries are always a possibility. The focus will now shift to identifying and integrating players who can step up and fill the roles left vacant by these unfortunate setbacks.
