World Cup 2026: Injury list continues to grow

For many footballers, stepping onto the pitch at a World Cup represents the ultimate career achievement; a moment that defines everything they’ve worked toward.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, 48 national team managers are preparing to name their squads for the tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With 1,248 spots available, competition is fierce, and heartbreak is inevitable.

Injuries, unfortunately, are one of the most common reasons players miss out. As the 2025–26 season draws to a close, several stars have already seen their World Cup dreams cut short due to serious fitness setbacks. While official squad lists won’t be submitted until May 11, a number of players have effectively been ruled out.

Among the most notable absentees:

Spain’s rising striker Samu Aghehowa suffered an ACL tear in February, halting what had been a breakthrough season. Similarly, Argentina’s Valentin Carboni and Joaquin Panichelli both sustained serious knee injuries, ending their chances.

The United States will be without Patrick Agyemang, who ruptured his Achilles tendon in April, while defender Cameron Carter-Vickers is also struggling with fitness concerns.

France has been dealt a major blow with Hugo Ekitike ruled out after an Achilles rupture during a Champions League clash. Germany’s Serge Gnabry will also miss the tournament after being sidelined until next season.

Brazil, meanwhile, faces multiple setbacks. Rodrygo and Eder Militao are both out with serious injuries, while teenage sensation Estevao is also expected to miss out following a severe hamstring tear.

Elsewhere, Ghana will be without Mohammed Kudus and Mohammed Salisu, both dealing with long-term injuries. Japan’s Takumi Minamino and the Netherlands’ Xavi Simons are also confirmed absentees after ACL injuries.

Mexico’s Luis Angel Malagon is recovering from an Achilles tear, opening the door for veteran Guillermo Ochoa to return ahead of a home World Cup.

While some players are definitively out, others remain in a race against time. Stars like Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, Bukayo Saka, and Raphinha are expected to recover in time, while Mohamed Salah, Kai Havertz, and Eberechi Eze are still awaiting medical clearance.

With just weeks to go until kickoff on June 11, the injury list continues to evolve -- a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in football. For those ruled out, the dream is over. For others, hope remains -- but the clock is ticking.