USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso needs ankle surgery, likely out for World Cup

TL;DR

USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso will undergo ankle surgery, likely sidelining him for the World Cup. The injury occurred during training and is classified as a high-grade sprain.

Key points

Johnny Cardoso requires ankle surgery
Injury occurred during training
High-grade sprain with joint impact
Likely out for the World Cup
Plays for Atlético Madrid

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Atlético Madrid

Johnny Cardoso

The U.S. national team received tough news Monday, May 11, with Atlético Madrid announcing midfielder Johnny Cardoso's ankle injury requires surgery, likely putting him out of the World Cup.

"Johnny Cardoso will have to undergo surgery to operate on the injury suffered to his right ankle," the club statement read.

The American suffered an injury in training last Thursday which triggered a high-grade sprain with joint impact.

While the La Liga club didn't unveil a timetable for the player's return, the news is a blow for hopes the 24-year-old would be fit for the World Cup.

Multiple reports, including from The Athletic, said that Cardoso will be out for this summer's tournament.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 9: Diego Luna of the United States poses during a USMNT portrait session on November 9, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 9: Tim Ream of the United States poses during a USMNT portrait session on November 9, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.