Spain forward Lamine Yamal sidelined for Barcelona's season end
As the World Cup approaches rapidly, numerous prominent players are either sidelined or striving to demonstrate their fitness in time for the tournament. Injuries have compelled international managers to make challenging decisions ahead of the competition set to commence on 11 June across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Lamine Yamal has raised concerns for Spain after sustaining a hamstring injury while scoring for Barcelona against Celta Vigo on Wednesday. Despite this, Barcelona expect him to be fit for the World Cup. Nevertheless, Yamal joins an expanding list of key players grappling with injury issues as the tournament nears.
Injured Lamine Yamal 'expected to be fit' for World Cup
Marc Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona and Germany)
Germany's primary goalkeeper, Marc Andre ter Stegen, is endeavoring to recover from a prolonged hamstring injury. This setback has significantly restricted his preparation, and prospects of his readiness for the opening matches in June are diminishing. His potential absence would represent a considerable blow to a squad heavily reliant on experienced players for major tournaments.
Rodrygo (Real Madrid and Brazil)
Brazil faces a major setback as Real Madrid forward Rodrygo was ruled out after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament tear in March. The five-time world champions will be without one of their most dynamic attacking players, with his injury eliminating any chance of a return for the tournament.
Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur and Argentina)
Argentina's defender Cristian Romero is sidelined for the rest of the Premier League season due to a knee injury. The 27-year-old appeared visibly distressed after limping off following a collision with goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky during Tottenham's Premier League loss at Sunderland in April. While there is optimism about his recovery in time for the World Cup, concerns persist regarding his lack of recent match play. Romero's aggression and leadership are vital to Argentina's defensive strategy.
Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool and France)
France striker Hugo Ekitike ruptured his Achilles tendon in April, ruling him out until 2027 and ending his World Cup aspirations. Ekitike joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt last July and has been a standout performer despite a challenging season for the club, contributing 17 goals and six assists across all competitions.
Mohammed Kudus (Tottenham Hotspur and Ghana)
Mohammed Kudus is awaiting further evaluation for a quadriceps injury that may necessitate surgery. Ghana risks losing a key creative player if his recovery extends longer than anticipated. His availability remains uncertain as critical decisions approach. The Ghana international has been sidelined for over three months after exiting Spurs' 1-1 draw with Sunderland on 4 January due to injury.
Eder Militao (Real Madrid and Brazil)
Real Madrid's Eder Militao has been ruled out for the remainder of the season following a hamstring tear. The 28-year-old centre-back aims to return for the World Cup; however, Brazil's medical team remains cautious given his recent history of muscle injuries.
Reece James (Chelsea and England)
England defender Reece James is contending with recurring hamstring problems while sidelined at Chelsea. Having missed the past two major tournaments, his World Cup hopes rely on avoiding further setbacks. The 26-year-old sustained the injury during a 1-0 Premier League defeat to Newcastle in March. Any delay in recovery could jeopardize his selection.
Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich and Canada)
Canada's key player Alphonso Davies is once again troubled by recurring muscle issues that have affected his recent seasons at Bayern Munich. His explosive pace is crucial to Canada's offensive threat, but his physical condition poses challenges at a critical time. Should he fail to regain full fitness, Canada's prospects would be significantly diminished.
Mikel Merino (Arsenal and Spain)
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has been a consistent figure for Spain but has been sidelined since February due to a fractured foot. Spain's medical team is cautious about a premature return.
Wataru Endo (Liverpool and Japan)
Japan captain Wataru Endo is managing dual injuries involving his knee and ankle following surgery necessitated by an injury sustained during Liverpool's February match against Sunderland. He is expected to miss the remainder of Liverpool's season, and his absence would create a significant void in midfield leadership and experience for Japan.
Arda Guler (Real Madrid and Turkey)
Arda Guler's domestic season has ended due to a hamstring injury. While there is a possibility he may recover in time for the World Cup, concerns remain regarding his sharpness and readiness given the limited time to regain match fitness.
Estevao Willian (Chelsea and Brazil)
Chelsea's teenage forward Estevao Willian is recovering from a hamstring tear and will not play again this season. Brazil remains hopeful about his participation, but his lack of recent competitive football makes his selection uncertain. The final decision will likely depend on his progress in the upcoming weeks.
